time will tell

Idioms

Sooner or later something will become known or be revealed, as in I don't know whether or not they'll like the reconstruction; only time will tell. This proverbial phrase dates from the early 1500s.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Only time will tell if the latest discount helps to move the needle on the 24-bathroom home with a private theater, spa, gym, and full sports complex on about 5 acres.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

Only time will tell if that turns out to be true.

From Salon • Mar. 9, 2026

And only time will tell which side of this debate is right.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

He said "time will tell" if this latest project inspires them to create more music.

From BBC • Jan. 27, 2026

Only time will tell, ladies and gentlemen, only time will tell.

From "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" by J.K. Rowling

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023