ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bound to be sth

idiom.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford

idiom. used to say that something is certain or very likely to happen.

idiom. an adjectival idiom expressing strong epistemic modality or perceived inevitability regarding a future state or outcome.


SIMPLE

It is bound to be sunny tomorrow.

CONTEXTUAL

If you don't study for the exam, there are bound to be some questions you can't answer.

COMPLEX

Given the historical volatility of the market, there are bound to be significant fluctuations following the announcement of the new fiscal policy.

Usage

usually follows the verb 'to be' and is followed by an infinitive verb phrase.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'likely to' (probability) and 'certain to' (fact); 'bound to' often implies a logical conclusion or a sense of destiny.

Pitfall

It is bound being a long day.It is bound to be a long day.the phrase must be followed by a 'to-infinitive', not a gerund.

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