21 Best Synonym for “Upcoming”: A Fun Guide to Fresh Alternatives!

Are you tired of using the same word over and over again? “Upcoming” can feel a little repetitive, but no worries! Here's your chance to discover 21 exciting synonyms that can spice up your writing. Whether you’re working on an essay, blog post, or casual email, these fresh alternatives will give your writing some much-needed variety. Let's dive in and discover how you can keep your writing dynamic and fun!

1. Approaching

“Approaching” is a great synonym for “upcoming” and adds a sense of anticipation. It suggests that something is getting closer, but it can also imply a certain urgency or excitement. For example, you might say, "The approaching deadline made everyone anxious," or "The approaching storm had us preparing for the worst." It’s a word that is easy to use in everyday conversations and professional settings. Just like “upcoming,” “approaching” carries a time-related meaning but with a more dramatic twist. It's perfect when you want to highlight that something is near but not quite here yet. So, whether you're talking about events, challenges, or even the weather, “approaching” can step in and make your sentence pop.

2. Forthcoming

If you want a more formal alternative, “forthcoming” is a fantastic choice. It gives off a sense of politeness and professionalism. You'll often see it in business emails or official reports. For example, you might say, "The forthcoming event will bring many exciting opportunities," or "The forthcoming announcement caught everyone’s attention." This word is often used when referring to something that's scheduled or planned to happen in the near future. It implies a sense of being prepared or already planned, which makes it perfect for more serious or official contexts. It’s not too casual but still easy to understand, making it an excellent substitute for “upcoming” in various scenarios.

3. Imminent

When something is “imminent,” it means it's about to happen very soon. This word carries a sense of urgency, suggesting that the event or action is practically at your doorstep. You might say, "The imminent arrival of the guests made everyone hustle," or "The imminent danger forced them to evacuate immediately." It’s a word that makes your writing feel more intense, highlighting how close an event is. Use “imminent” when you want to describe things that are so near that they could happen any moment. Whether you’re writing about a deadline or an event, this word works perfectly when you need to show something is on the verge of happening.

4. Pending

“Pending” is a simple yet effective synonym for “upcoming,” especially when you want to emphasize that something is waiting to happen or is in progress. You could use it in a sentence like, "The pending announcement created a lot of buzz," or "There's a pending decision that will change everything." It’s perfect for situations where something is still waiting to be finalized or decided. The word suggests that the event or outcome isn't fully confirmed yet, adding an element of suspense or uncertainty. It's a great choice when you want to point out that something is on the horizon, but it's not quite here yet.

5. Looming

“Looming” is a great way to describe something that is approaching and feels like it's hanging over you. It often has a slightly ominous or foreboding feeling, making it perfect for situations where an event seems like it could have significant consequences. For example, "The looming deadline had everyone on edge," or "The looming storm forced everyone to prepare." This word often has a negative or tense connotation, so it's great for describing things that people might feel uneasy about. Use “looming” when you want to create a sense of pressure or anxiety, emphasizing the closeness of something major or important.

6. Soon-to-be

“Soon-to-be” is a charming and friendly synonym for “upcoming.” It's often used when talking about events that are about to take place. You might say, "The soon-to-be bride looked stunning," or "The soon-to-be released book has already gained attention." It implies that something is not far off, but it hasn't happened yet. This phrase often makes your writing feel more personal, as it refers to a specific time in the near future. It's great for casual conversations or when you want to add a touch of warmth to your writing. Whether you’re discussing someone's future plans or an upcoming event, “soon-to-be” is a fun choice.

7. Ensuing

“Ensuing” is a slightly more formal synonym, often used in contexts where something happens as a result of something else. For example, "The ensuing chaos made it impossible to focus," or "The ensuing party was filled with excitement." It highlights what happens next after a certain event or situation. It can be used in both casual and formal settings, making it a versatile choice. It suggests that the event is not just approaching, but it's coming as a consequence or continuation of something. “Ensuing” is perfect when you want to describe a sequence of events that are linked together.

8. On the Horizon

When you say something is “on the horizon,” it means that it’s coming soon but isn’t here yet. This phrase often evokes the image of something approaching in the distance, much like the way the sun or moon rises. You might say, "A new adventure is on the horizon," or "The next chapter in the book is on the horizon." It's a poetic and hopeful way to refer to the future. This expression is great when you want to add a sense of optimism or expectation to your writing. Use “on the horizon” when you want to create excitement about something that's just about to happen.

9. Near

“Near” is a simple, straightforward alternative to “upcoming” that works well in almost any situation. You can use it in casual or formal writing to describe something that is close in time. For example, "The near arrival of the guests excited everyone," or "The near end of the project meant it was time to celebrate." It gives a sense of closeness without the urgency of words like “imminent.” It's easy to understand and adds a gentle sense of anticipation. “Near” can be used to describe anything from an event to a deadline, making it one of the most versatile words for the future.

10. Approaching Fast

“Approaching fast” is a more energetic and urgent way to describe something that's just around the corner. It emphasizes how quickly the event is coming, adding a sense of speed and excitement. For instance, "The approaching fast deadline had everyone scrambling," or "The approaching fast storm caused a lot of concern." This phrase is useful when you want to convey the idea that the event is not only near, but it's coming quickly. It’s perfect for situations where time is running out or where there’s a sense of rush or panic. It's a great choice when you need to make your writing feel more intense.

11. Upcoming Soon

“Upcoming soon” is another easy-going alternative to “upcoming.” It doubles down on the idea that something is approaching quickly. It's casual and friendly, which makes it perfect for blog posts or casual conversations. For example, you might say, "The upcoming soon movie release is highly anticipated," or "The upcoming soon wedding will be a grand affair." While it's not the most formal choice, it works well when you want to create excitement without sounding too stiff. “Upcoming soon” emphasizes that something is just around the corner and can get your reader excited for what’s next.

12. In the Near Future

When you talk about something in the “near future,” you’re referring to something that will happen soon but isn't quite immediate. This phrase is a little more formal but still easy to understand. You could say, "The new policy will take effect in the near future," or "We'll have updates in the near future regarding the project." It's a great phrase for business or professional writing, where you want to sound optimistic about what's to come. “In the near future” is useful when you want to communicate a sense of certainty without being too specific about timing.

13. Upcoming Event

“Upcoming event” is a classic and widely used phrase. It's simple but effective when you want to talk about something that is about to happen. You can say, "The upcoming event is expected to bring a lot of people," or "We're all excited about the upcoming event at the park." Whether it's a concert, meeting, or celebration, this phrase keeps things clear and straightforward. It's one of those expressions that's always reliable, and everyone can easily understand it. Use “upcoming event” when you want to focus specifically on an organized happening or plan.

14. Imminent Arrival

“Imminent arrival” refers to something that's about to arrive at any moment. It's a phrase that can add urgency and excitement to your writing. You might say, "The imminent arrival of the guests made us scramble to prepare," or "The imminent arrival of the new product has everyone talking." This phrase is great for highlighting that something important or exciting is coming right up. It's ideal for when you want to make your audience feel that a significant event or change is very close, adding a sense of anticipation.

15. In the Pipeline

“In the pipeline” is a fun and casual synonym that can be used to refer to plans or events that are coming soon but are still being worked on. For example, "There are some exciting things in the pipeline for next year," or "The new project is still in the pipeline, but it looks promising." This phrase works well in business settings or casual conversations when you want to highlight something that’s in development but not yet ready. It suggests that the process is moving forward, and the event or outcome is inevitable.

16. Fast-Approaching

“Fast-approaching” gives the sense that something is coming quickly, with a little more urgency than just “approaching.” It's great for creating excitement or tension. For example, "The fast-approaching deadline left no time for procrastination," or "The fast-approaching concert had fans counting down the days." This phrase is perfect for highlighting time pressure or excitement. It's ideal when you want to convey that something important or thrilling is on the way, and it's coming at full speed.

17. Coming Soon

“Coming soon” is a fun and casual way to express that something is going to happen in the near future. It's often used in movie trailers, product advertisements, or event promotions. For example, "The coming soon movie is already getting rave reviews," or "The coming soon store opening will offer great deals." It creates a sense of excitement and anticipation, encouraging people to look forward to what's next. This phrase is informal and playful, which makes it great for marketing or any situation where you want to build hype.

18. On the Way

“On the way” is another friendly and casual synonym for “upcoming.” It suggests that something is in transit or heading toward you. You might say, "The new products are on the way," or "The on the way team will arrive shortly." This phrase has a relaxed tone but still conveys the idea that something is coming soon. It's perfect when you want to show that something is in progress and will be arriving shortly. Whether you're talking about a shipment, a guest, or an event, “on the way” works well for a wide range of situations.

19. In Store

“In store” is a casual phrase that refers to something that will happen or be available soon. You could say, "There are big surprises in store for the weekend," or "The new collection is in store now." It gives the sense that something exciting or special is waiting for you. This phrase often has a positive, optimistic vibe, making it great for promotions or when you want to build excitement. “In store” is typically used in a marketing context but can work for anything that promises something new and exciting.

20. Around the Corner

“Around the corner” is another fun way to describe something that's coming up soon. It's often used to suggest that something is not far off and that it's right nearby. For example, "The big day is just around the corner," or "The new season is around the corner, and fans can't wait." This phrase works well when you want to emphasize that the event or action is very close and imminent. It's informal and friendly, making it ideal for casual conversations or blog posts where you want to keep things light and engaging.

21. On the Way

“On the way” is an excellent synonym to express that something is coming soon. It suggests that things are already in motion. You might say, "The event is on the way," or "The new updates are on the way to be announced." This phrase works well in casual and formal settings, making it highly versatile. It conveys a sense of anticipation without being overly urgent. When you want to express that something is in progress and approaching, “on the way” does the trick perfectly.

Synonym for Upcoming

I hope this list of 21 synonyms for “upcoming” makes your writing more exciting and versatile! These words will help you avoid repetition and keep your content fresh.