soon

American  

[soon] / sun /

adverb

sooner, soonest

1. within a short period after this or that time, event, etc..

   We shall know soon after he calls.

2. before long; in the near future; at an early date.

   Let's leave soon.

3. promptly or quickly.

   He came as soon as he could.

4. readily or willingly.

   I would as soon walk as ride.

5. early in a period of time; before the time specified is much advanced.

   soon at night; soon in the evening.

6. Obsolete. immediately; at once; forthwith.

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soon British  

/ suːn /

adverb

1. in or after a short time; in a little while; before long

   the doctor will soon be here

2. at the very moment that

   she burst into tears as soon as she saw him

3. used to indicate that the second alternative mentioned is not preferable to the first

   I'd just as soon go by train as drive

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soon Idioms  

1. see as soon as; fool and his money are soon parted; had rather (sooner); just as soon; no sooner said than done; speak too soon.

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Etymology

Origin of soon

First recorded before 900; Middle English; Old English sōna; cognate with Old High German sān, Gothic suns

Example Sentences

Under South Africa law, soldiers can only arrest civilians under rare circumstances and must then hand the suspect over to the police as soon as possible.

From BBC

Like WeChat, Max’s developers said the app would soon add a payments system and integrate games, shopping, food delivery and healthcare services.

From The Wall Street Journal

His direct running and pace out wide is something Scotland simply cannot replace and the sooner he is back to full fitness, the better.

From BBC

It is important to note that Chelsea have not yet released their full accounts, which will soon be published at Companies House and are expected to provide a more detailed picture.

From BBC

Yes, gas taxes may soon become a tax of the past.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• directly
• early
• instantly
• promptly
• quickly
• rapidly
• shortly
• speedily