- A non-committal response indicating uncertainty about a future outcome.
- It suggests that waiting is necessary to know the result.
- Can sometimes imply doubt, reluctance, or be used to avoid making a prediction or commitment.
Explanation
Origin
- Simple future tense construction (we will see) expressing the need to wait for future observation or events to reveal the outcome.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- TBD
- Who knows?
- Flip a coin.
More Formal:
- The outcome is uncertain at this time.
- It remains to be seen.
- We must await further developments.
Expressing Doubt (stronger than We'll see):
- I wouldn't hold my breath.
- Don't bet on it.
- I have my doubts.
Situational Appropriateness
- Acceptable in most informal and semi-formal contexts.
- Can sound evasive, dismissive, or unhelpful in professional situations where a clear plan, prediction, or commitment is needed.
- Common phrase used by parents towards children's requests.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Can be easily misinterpreted as negative or dismissive (I doubt it, Probably not) if the tone is not neutral. Learners should pay close attention to the tone and context.
Examples
- Do you think the weather will be good for the picnic? We'll see.
- Will they approve our proposal? We'll see.
- Child: Can we get ice cream later? Parent: We'll see. (Often a polite way of saying 'maybe' or 'probably not')
Dialogue
Anna: Do you think you'll get the promotion?
Mark: I had a good interview, but there's strong competition. We'll see.
Anna: Well, I'm rooting for you!
Social Media Examples
- Post: Launching my new Etsy shop next week! Will anyone buy anything? We'll see! 🤞 #smallbusiness #nervous
- Reply: Q: Think Team X will win the championship? A: They've got a shot, but Team Y is strong. We'll see...
Response Patterns
- Okay... (often said with resignation)
- I hope so.
- Fingers crossed.
- Right. (acknowledgement)
- Silence.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing We'll see:
- Often, no immediate follow-up is appropriate, as the phrase signals waiting is required.
- One might ask later: Any news yet?, Did you find out about...?.
- If used by a parent to a child, the child might ask again later.
Action:
- Wait for the situation to develop or for more information.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a response to a question or speculation about the future.
Intonation
- Often said with a flat or slightly falling intonation. WE'LL SEE.
- Stress is usually even or slightly on see.
- Tone can range from neutral uncertainty to doubtful, dismissive, or even slightly ominous depending on context.
Generation Differences
- Common across all age groups.
Regional Variations
- Universal in English.