Reading Time: 3 minutes
Intermediate (B1) level.
Introduction to the Idiom
When you need to describe something that is about to happen soon, the phrase “around the corner” is an ideal choice. This expression is widely used to indicate that an event is imminent or about to happen very soon, making it perfect for both everyday conversations and more formal contexts. Whether you’re discussing upcoming events, changes, or deadlines, “around the corner” adds a visual and idiomatic touch to your language.
What Does “Around the Corner” Mean?
“Around the corner” is a phrase used to describe something that is imminent or about to happen soon. The phrase suggests that the event or change is very close in time, much like something that is just out of sight but immediately nearby. It’s often used to create a sense of anticipation or urgency about an upcoming event.
Practical Applications of the Idiom
Everyday Conversations
In daily life, we often discuss events or changes that are expected to happen soon. “Around the corner” is the perfect phrase to use in these moments, adding a vivid and idiomatic expression to your language.
For example:
- “With the holidays around the corner, everyone is getting into the festive spirit.”
This sentence describes the holidays as happening very soon and creating a sense of anticipation. - “The new year is just around the corner, and many people are making resolutions.”
Here, the phrase is used to indicate that the new year is imminent and people are preparing for it.
IELTS Speaking and Writing
For IELTS candidates, using phrases like “around the corner” can enhance your speaking and writing performance. This expression is particularly useful when discussing events, changes, or actions that are expected to happen soon.
Consider these examples:
- “With the deadline around the corner, the team is working hard to complete the project.”
In this context, the phrase emphasizes the urgency of the approaching deadline. - “The election is just around the corner, and the candidates are intensifying their campaigns.”
This sentence would be effective in a discussion about upcoming events or important dates.
Why Use This Phrase?
Adds a Visual and Anticipatory Tone to Your Language
While you could say “coming soon,” using “around the corner” adds a more idiomatic and visual tone to your language. It not only communicates imminence but does so in a way that creates a sense of anticipation and urgency.
Enhances Clarity and Engagement in Communication
Incorporating phrases like “around the corner” into your speech or writing can improve your ability to describe imminent events with clarity and engagement. Whether in casual conversations, academic essays, or professional documents, this phrase helps you articulate the nearness of an event in a clear and memorable way.
Similar Expressions and Alternatives
While “around the corner” is a common and effective way to describe something that is about to happen, there are other phrases that can convey similar meanings. Knowing these alternatives allows you to diversify your language and avoid repetition:
- “Coming soon.”
A straightforward phrase that indicates something is happening shortly. - “Imminent.”
A more formal term that describes something as about to happen. - “Close at hand.”
A phrase that suggests something is very near in time or space.
Conclusion
“Around the corner” is a versatile phrase that effectively describes events or actions that are imminent. Whether you’re preparing for an IELTS exam, discussing upcoming events in a formal document, or simply talking about something that is about to happen, this phrase adds a visual and idiomatic touch to your language. It serves as a clear and engaging way to communicate the idea of something happening soon. The next time you need to describe something imminent, remember to use “around the corner” for a more idiomatic and expressive statement.
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