Bedeutung
Used to say that the truth or outcome of something will only be known in the future.
Kultureller Hintergrund
Patience is a virtue. This phrase is a gentle reminder to wait. Used to avoid over-promising or making false predictions. Used to maintain neutrality when reporting on developing stories. Used to diffuse tension in arguments about the future.
Keep it simple
Don't add extra words. 'Time will tell' is powerful on its own.
Avoid in emergencies
If someone needs help, don't use this phrase. It sounds dismissive.
Bedeutung
Used to say that the truth or outcome of something will only be known in the future.
Keep it simple
Don't add extra words. 'Time will tell' is powerful on its own.
Avoid in emergencies
If someone needs help, don't use this phrase. It sounds dismissive.
Use for emphasis
Add 'only' to make it sound more serious or philosophical.
Universal sentiment
Most cultures understand this sentiment, making it a great bridge phrase.
Teste dich selbst
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
We are not sure if the plan will work, but time will ____.
The idiom is 'time will tell'.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.
Which sentence is correct?
The phrase is 'Time will tell' without articles or extra objects.
Match the situation to the best response.
A friend asks if you think the new movie will be good.
This phrase is perfect for predicting uncertain future outcomes.
Complete the dialogue.
Person A: 'Do you think this investment will pay off?' Person B: '_______.'
This is the most natural way to express uncertainty about a future result.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenWe are not sure if the plan will work, but time will ____.
The idiom is 'time will tell'.
Which sentence is correct?
The phrase is 'Time will tell' without articles or extra objects.
A friend asks if you think the new movie will be good.
This phrase is perfect for predicting uncertain future outcomes.
Person A: 'Do you think this investment will pay off?' Person B: '_______.'
This is the most natural way to express uncertainty about a future result.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
12 FragenYes, it is acceptable in professional contexts, especially when discussing long-term projects.
It depends on the context. If you are being asked for a prediction, it is fine. If you are being asked for a status update, it might sound evasive.
It is an idiomatic convention. 'Tell' implies a story or a truth being revealed.
No, it is always 'Time' (singular).
No, it is neutral. It can be used for good or bad outcomes.
'Time will tell' is more philosophical and detached. 'We'll see' is more personal and informal.
It can sound passive-aggressive if used in an argument.
Yes, it is best used as a complete thought.
Yes, it is a classic line used to build suspense.
No, it is strictly for future outcomes.
Yes, it functions as a short, wise saying.
Time (rhymes with lime) will (rhymes with hill) tell (rhymes with bell).
Verwandte Redewendungen
Only time will tell
similarAdds emphasis to the uncertainty.
Wait and see
similarA more active approach to waiting.
The truth will out
similarFocuses on the truth being revealed.
In the fullness of time
similarEventually, when the time is right.
