taɪm wɪl tɛl
Time
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- time itself will speak or reveal information
What does "time will tell" mean?
the truth or outcome will be revealed eventually
Examples
- The new policy might work, but only time will tell.
- Time will tell whether the merger was a wise decision.
- He says he's changed, but time will tell.
Origin
A proverb dating back to at least the 16th century.
How to use it
Used when the outcome of a situation is uncertain and requires patience.
Similar expressions
we'll see
the future will show
remains to be seen
Related idioms
- in the long run
Over a long period of time
- better late than never
It's better to do something late than not to do it at all
- from time to time
occasionally, not regularly
- in the nick of time
Just in time; at the last possible moment
- run out of time
to have no more time left to do something
- time flies when you're having fun
Enjoyable moments seem to pass quickly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "time will tell" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.