Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a short time; soon: Indicates that something will happen shortly or before long.
   • At another time; later: Refers to an unspecified future time.

Usage

The word "anon" is considered old-fashioned or literary in modern English. It is used to express immediacy or a future point in time, often with a poetic or archaic tone. It is not common in everyday conversation.

Examples

• In a short time; soon:

  • I shall return anon. (I will return soon.)
  • The messenger promised to deliver the letter anon. (The messenger promised to deliver the letter shortly.)

• At another time; later:

  • We can discuss the details anon. (We can discuss the details at another time.)

Advanced Usage

• "Ever and anon": An archaic or literary phrase meaning "now and then" or "occasionally."
  • Ever and anon, he would glance at the clock. (Now and then, he would glance at the clock.)

Variants and Related Words

• Soon (adv.): In or after a short time.
• Shortly (adv.): In a short time; before long.
• Presently (adv., archaic): Soon; after a short time.

Synonyms

• Soon
• Shortly
• Directly (archaic)
• Forthwith (formal)
• By and by (old-fashioned)

Idioms and Phrases

• Ever and anon: Occasionally; from time to time.

Adverb

1. (old-fashioned or informal) in a little while
   • see you anon
2. at another time
   • ever and anon