When I began writing in English, I realized I often used the word upcoming in emails, posts, and chatting with coworkers. Exploring forthcoming, approaching, or nearing as simple yet useful alternatives can change the tone of your message, making it feel formal, friendly, or professional depending on the context. Understanding different ways to say the same thing not only avoids repetitive or plain writing but also helps express a variety of phrases naturally. Using these synonyms can enhance your vocabulary, foster a positive mindset, and make everyday conversations more engaging and impactful. Other Ways to Say “Upcoming” (With Examples) is a guide I often refer to when I need fresh inspiration.
Over time, I discovered that using fresh words in work, school, or personal writing is incredibly helpful. Developing a solid habit of learning the meaning of each word, knowing when and how to use it, and practicing ten or more examples in sentences builds confidence for any speaker.
Adjusting your language, sound, and phrase choices makes your message appropriate for your audience.
Did You Know About “Thinking of You”?
The phrase “Thinking of You” is widely used to express care, anticipation, and emotional presence. While it may seem simple, it carries the essence of mindfulness and thoughtfulness, particularly when discussing future plans or upcoming events. By pairing this sentiment with precise vocabulary, your communication can convey both empathy and clarity.
What Does “Thinking of You” Mean?
At its core, “Thinking of You” reflects an emotional and mental acknowledgment of someone’s importance in your life or in relation to an upcoming event. It’s more than a casual greeting—it’s an intentional statement showing that you are mentally present and emotionally invested. This makes it especially meaningful in personal, professional, and spiritual contexts.
Professional or Political Way to Say “Thinking of You”
In formal or political settings, expressing “Thinking of You” can be reframed to maintain professionalism while still being personal. Phrases like “Looking Forward To Your Participation”, “Anticipating Your Insights”, or “Mindful of Your Contributions” convey the same warmth and attentiveness without being overly casual.
“Upcoming” Synonyms
- Forthcoming
- Approaching
- Impending
- Imminent
- Pending
- Next
- On the Horizon
- In the Pipeline
- In Store
- In the Offing
- Looming
- Next Up
- Soon-to-Be
- Future
- Prospective
- Fast Approaching
- Immediate
- Upcoming Event
- On Deck
- Scheduled
- Arriving
- Approaching Soon
- About to Happen
- Ready
- Pending Arrival
- In Progress
- Near-term
- At Hand
- In the Coming Days
- In the Making
1. Forthcoming
Definition: Forthcoming refers to something that is about to happen or be released soon.
Meanings: Impending, imminent, near
Example: The forthcoming meeting will cover the new project updates.
Detailed Explanation: “Forthcoming” is ideal when discussing planned events or information releases. It conveys a sense of expectation and preparation. This term works well in both professional and casual contexts, giving your audience a clear indication of what to anticipate.
Tone: Formal, neutral
Best Use: Professional emails, announcements, newsletters
2. Approaching
Definition: Approaching describes something that is drawing near in time or distance.
Meanings: Coming, near, imminent
Example: The deadline for submissions is approaching quickly.
Detailed Explanation: “Approaching” emphasizes proximity, often creating a subtle sense of urgency. It’s versatile for both personal and business communications, signaling that an event or deadline is imminent and should be noted.
Tone: Neutral, slightly urgent
Best Use: Deadlines, events, meetings
3. Impending
Definition: Impending indicates that something is about to occur, often with a sense of inevitability.
Meanings: Imminent, near, upcoming
Example: The storm’s impending arrival forced us to postpone the trip.
Detailed Explanation: “Impending” carries a slightly dramatic or serious undertone. It is perfect for situations where events have a significant impact or require immediate attention.
Tone: Serious, formal
Best Use: Weather forecasts, warnings, critical deadlines
4. Imminent
Definition: Imminent refers to something about to happen very soon.
Meanings: Forthcoming, close, near
Example: The launch of the product is imminent.
Detailed Explanation: “Imminent” is used for events or actions that are almost certain and immediate. It conveys urgency and readiness, making it appropriate in both corporate and emergency contexts.
Tone: Formal, urgent
Best Use: Product launches, deadlines, critical updates
5. Pending
Definition: Pending refers to something awaiting decision, completion, or occurrence.
Meanings: Awaiting, unresolved, upcoming
Example: Your application is pending approval from the committee.
Detailed Explanation: “Pending” focuses on events or decisions that are in progress but not yet finalized. It’s commonly used in administrative, legal, and professional settings.
Tone: Formal, neutral
Best Use: Applications, approvals, processes
6. Next
Definition: Next simply refers to the following in a sequence.
Meanings: Subsequent, following, upcoming
Example: Our next session will be on leadership strategies.
Detailed Explanation: “Next” is a versatile term, highly conversational, and easy to understand. It works in casual conversations, schedules, and instructional contexts without sounding too formal.
Tone: Casual, friendly
Best Use: Meetings, classes, events
7. On the Horizon
Definition: On the horizon suggests something is soon to occur or become visible.
Meanings: Upcoming, impending, foreseeable
Example: Exciting changes are on the horizon for our company.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase adds a figurative and anticipatory tone, evoking curiosity and hope. It’s ideal for announcements, visionary statements, or storytelling.
Tone: Inspirational, optimistic
Best Use: Marketing, motivational speeches, personal updates
8. In the Pipeline
Definition: “In the pipeline” refers to something currently being prepared and expected soon.
Meanings: Upcoming, in progress, pending
Example: Several new projects are in the pipeline for the next quarter.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes ongoing preparation or planning. It works well in professional, creative, or corporate contexts, signaling anticipation without specifying exact timing.
Tone: Professional, casual
Best Use: Business planning, project updates
9. In Store
Definition: “In store” implies that something is waiting or planned for the future.
Meanings: Upcoming, awaiting, expected
Example: Exciting surprises are in store for our loyal customers.
Detailed Explanation: “In store” gives a friendly and inviting tone, often used in marketing or personal communication. It creates curiosity and anticipation.
Tone: Casual, friendly
Best Use: Marketing campaigns, announcements, events
10. In the Offing
Definition: “In the offing” describes something likely to happen soon.
Meanings: Impending, near, expected
Example: A major policy change is in the offing for the organization.
Detailed Explanation: This idiomatic expression is ideal for formal or literary contexts. It conveys anticipation while keeping the timing slightly vague.
Tone: Formal, neutral
Best Use: Announcements, news, professional updates
11. Looming
Definition: Looming refers to something approaching, often with a sense of urgency or concern.
Meanings: Impending, upcoming, imminent
Example: The looming deadline has everyone working overtime.
Detailed Explanation: “Looming” emphasizes pressing proximity, often suggesting caution or stress. It’s suitable for deadlines, challenges, or events that require preparation.
Tone: Serious, urgent
Best Use: Work, academic, or critical events
12. Next Up
Definition: Next up is a casual way to indicate the following in a sequence.
Meanings: Following, upcoming, subsequent
Example: Next up on the agenda is the marketing presentation.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is conversational and engaging, perfect for presentations, meetings, or social updates. It signals what comes next without sounding formal.
Tone: Casual, friendly
Best Use: Meetings, schedules, events
13. Soon-to-Be
Definition: Soon-to-be refers to something expected to happen in the near future.
Meanings: Upcoming, imminent, approaching
Example: She is the soon-to-be manager of the new department.
Detailed Explanation: “Soon-to-be” is ideal for personal and professional contexts where a status or role is about to change. It conveys excitement and anticipation.
Tone: Informal, optimistic
Best Use: Announcements, promotions, milestones
14. Future
Definition: Future refers to what lies ahead in time.
Meanings: Upcoming, forthcoming, later
Example: We plan to discuss future initiatives at the board meeting.
Detailed Explanation: “Future” is a broad and versatile term suitable for professional, casual, or educational contexts. It conveys a neutral and forward-looking perspective.
Tone: Neutral, formal
Best Use: Planning, goal-setting, discussions
15. Prospective
Definition: Prospective indicates something expected or considered for the future.
Meanings: Upcoming, potential, anticipated
Example: The prospective candidates will be interviewed next week.
Detailed Explanation: “Prospective” is commonly used in formal, business, or academic contexts. It emphasizes evaluation and expectation rather than certainty.
Tone: Formal, evaluative
Best Use: HR, recruitment, academic studies
Also Read This : 30 Other Ways to Say “Unsettlingly” (With Examples)
16. Fast Approaching
Definition: Fast approaching describes events or deadlines drawing near quickly.
Meanings: Imminent, upcoming, near
Example: The fast-approaching conference requires all preparations to be complete.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes urgency and speed, often motivating action. It’s ideal for deadlines, appointments, and project milestones.
Tone: Urgent, informative
Best Use: Business, events, planning
17. Immediate
Definition: Immediate refers to something happening without delay.
Meanings: Upcoming, imminent, instantaneous
Example: The immediate tasks must be prioritized today.
Detailed Explanation: “Immediate” stresses urgency and is excellent for instructions or alerts. It’s slightly stronger than “upcoming,” implying action must be taken promptly.
Tone: Urgent, formal
Best Use: Task management, alerts, instructions
18. Upcoming Event
Definition: Upcoming event directly refers to a future occurrence.
Meanings: Forthcoming occasion, approaching gathering
Example: The upcoming event will feature multiple keynote speakers.
Detailed Explanation: Using “upcoming event” is straightforward and clear, suitable for professional or casual invitations. It avoids ambiguity about timing or type of event.
Tone: Neutral, informative
Best Use: Invitations, announcements, schedules
19. On Deck
Definition: On deck indicates something ready to happen next.
Meanings: Next, upcoming, ready
Example: The on-deck presentation will start shortly.
Detailed Explanation: “On deck” is informal and engaging, often used in sports, media, and casual meetings. It signals readiness and sequence.
Tone: Casual, friendly
Best Use: Meetings, broadcasts, informal updates
20. Scheduled
Definition: Scheduled refers to something planned for a specific future time.
Meanings: Planned, arranged, upcoming
Example: The scheduled maintenance will occur tomorrow morning.
Detailed Explanation: “Scheduled” conveys certainty and preparation. It’s ideal for formal, professional, or service-related communication.
Tone: Formal, neutral
Best Use: Appointments, events, meetings
21. Arriving
Definition: Arriving suggests something reaching a point or time soon.
Meanings: Approaching, upcoming, imminent
Example: A new shipment is arriving next week.
Detailed Explanation: “Arriving” is literal and figurative, usable in personal or business contexts. It conveys anticipation with clarity.
Tone: Neutral, informative
Best Use: Deliveries, events, arrivals
22. Approaching Soon
Definition: Approaching soon highlights that something is nearly happening.
Meanings: Imminent, near, upcoming
Example: The holiday season is approaching soon.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is conversational yet precise, excellent for casual updates and friendly reminders.
Tone: Casual, friendly
Best Use: Social posts, personal reminders, announcements
23. About to Happen
Definition: About to happen signals an event is imminent.
Meanings: Upcoming, immediate, near
Example: The game is about to happen in the stadium.
Detailed Explanation: This expression is highly informal, creating urgency and excitement. It works well for casual, conversational, or dynamic contexts.
Tone: Informal, lively
Best Use: Sports, events, announcements
24. Ready
Definition: Ready indicates something prepared for immediate action.
Meanings: Prepared, imminent, upcoming
Example: The team is ready for the upcoming launch.
Detailed Explanation: “Ready” conveys preparation and anticipation, signaling confidence and efficiency. Perfect for professional and casual announcements.
Tone: Positive, confident
Best Use: Work, projects, launches
25. Pending Arrival
Definition: Pending arrival describes something expected but not yet present.
Meanings: Awaiting, upcoming, imminent
Example: The pending arrival of the shipment has everyone excited.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes expectation and anticipation. It works well for logistics, business, or event planning contexts.
Tone: Neutral, anticipatory
Best Use: Logistics, events, announcements
26. In Progress
Definition: In progress indicates that preparations for an event are underway.
Meanings: Ongoing, upcoming, developing
Example: Several initiatives are in progress for the next quarter.
Detailed Explanation: “In progress” suggests that while not immediate, the event or task is being actively prepared. It works well in professional and project contexts.
Tone: Neutral, professional
Best Use: Projects, business updates, planning
27. Near-term
Definition: Near-term refers to something expected soon but without precise timing.
Meanings: Upcoming, short-term, imminent
Example: We have several near-term goals to achieve this month.
Detailed Explanation: “Near-term” is formal and strategic, often used in business, finance, or planning discussions. It emphasizes planning within a short timeframe.
Tone: Formal, professional
Best Use: Business, strategy, planning
28. At Hand
Definition: At hand describes something immediately accessible or imminent.
Meanings: Upcoming, imminent, near
Example: The solution to the problem is at hand.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys closeness or readiness. It works in both professional and literary contexts, often implying that action can be taken soon.
Tone: Neutral, versatile
Best Use: Problem-solving, events, announcements
29. In the Coming Days
Definition: In the coming days refers to something expected soon.
Meanings: Upcoming, imminent, near future
Example: We will release updates in the coming days.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is informal and friendly, perfect for communication that is encouraging and approachable. It sets expectations without exact dates.
Tone: Friendly, casual
Best Use: Announcements, updates, reminders
30. In the Making
Definition: In the making suggests that something is being developed and will happen soon.
Meanings: Upcoming, developing, forthcoming
Example: A major collaboration is in the making.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase implies progress and anticipation. It works well in creative, professional, and marketing contexts, evoking curiosity and excitement.
Tone: Inspirational, anticipatory
Best Use: Projects, collaborations, launches
FAQs :
1. What does “upcoming” mean?
Upcoming means something that is going to happen soon. It’s often used in writing, emails, posts, or conversations to indicate future events.
2. What are some alternatives to “upcoming”?
You can use forthcoming, approaching, nearing, or other synonyms. These alternatives help express your ideas in a fresh, formal, or friendly tone.
3. How can I make my writing less repetitive?
Instead of using upcoming often, try different words, phrases, or swaps. Adjusting your language makes your message more engaging and impactful.
4. Are these alternatives suitable for emails and posts?
Yes! Words like forthcoming or approaching are appropriate for emails, work, school, personal writing, or posts, making your tone professional or friendly.
5. How can I practice using these alternatives?
You can create sentences, examples, or short posts, adjusting tone and language. Practicing ten or more times helps build confidence for any speaker.
Conclusion :
Using other ways to say “upcoming” can enhance your vocabulary, make your writing more engaging, and avoid repetitive or plain language. Whether in emails, posts, or everyday conversations, exploring synonyms like forthcoming, approaching, and nearing will connect you better with your audience and help you express ideas clearly, naturally, and confidently.
Emma Brooke is the voice behind English Sharp Mind, dedicated to helping learners sharpen their English skills with clear explanations, practical tips, and confidence-building guidance.
