# only time will tell

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/only-time-will-tell
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Alternative form of time will tell.

## Examples

- Only time will tell if this new plan works.
- We just started the new business, but only time will tell if it becomes successful.
- Whether the recent political reforms will truly improve the lives of citizens is uncertain, and only time will tell.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.