matter of time
Bound to happen
A matter of time describes something that will inevitably happen, though exactly when remains uncertain: It's only a matter of time before they find out.
The phrase acknowledges that the outcome is settled—only the timing is in question.
Often carries a note of resignation or warning about something unwelcome approaching.
- eventualOccurring after delay
- inevitableCertain to occur
- foregoneAlready certain beforehand
- clockDevice displaying time
- tickParasitic eight-legged pest
bound to happen · certainty · countdown · imminence · destiny · sooner or later · just around the corner · any day now · writing on the wall · fuse · hourglass · anticipation · guaranteed · transience · fate · waiting · storm brewing · brewing
- time sayingscarpe diem, seize the day, better late than never, tempus fugit, haste makes waste
- future wordseventually, someday, soon, finally, ultimately
matter of timeuncertain
Not firmly known
up in the air · doubtful · touch and go · questionable · impossible
matter of timeimpossible
Incapable of occurring
out of the question · pipe dream · long shot · unlikely · improbable
matter of timenow or never
Final opportunity phrase
against all odds · dead end · lost cause · fool's errand · ship has sailed