What does “We shall see what we shall see.” mean?

"We shall see what we shall see" means that the outcome of a situation is uncertain and cannot be predicted. It suggests a sense of resignation or acceptance that we can only wait and see what happens.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I don't know if it will rain tomorrow or not. We shall see what we shall see.

Example

I'm not sure if I'll get the job or not. We shall see what we shall see.

Example

I'm not making any promises. *We shall see what we shall see.

Is “We shall see what we shall see.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“We shall see what we shall see.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “We shall see what we shall see.” effectively in context?

You can use "We shall see what we shall see" to express uncertainty about the outcome of a situation. It suggests a sense of resignation or acceptance that we can only wait and see what happens. For example, if someone asks if you think they will win a competition, you might respond, 'I'm not sure, but we shall see what we shall see.'

1Weather
I don't know if it will rain tomorrow or not. We shall see what we shall see.
2Job Interview
I'm not sure if I'll get the job or not. We shall see what we shall see.
3Making Promises
I'm not making any promises. We shall see what we shall see.

Similar phrases to “We shall see what we shall see.”:

Time will tell

This phrase means that the outcome of a situation will become clear over time.

Example

I'm not sure if they will succeed, but time will tell.

Wait and see

This phrase means to be patient and observe what happens before making a judgment or decision.

Example

I'm not sure if it's a good idea, let's wait and see.

In the lap of the gods

This phrase means that the outcome of a situation is beyond one's control and will be determined by fate or external factors.

Example

I've done all I can, now it's in the lap of the gods.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “We shall see what we shall see.” come from?

The origin of the phrase "We shall see what we shall see" is unknown.

Is “We shall see what we shall see.” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "We shall see what we shall see" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other proverbs or idioms. It is more often used in specific situations where uncertainty is being discussed.

What tone does “We shall see what we shall see.” have?

The tone of "We shall see what we shall see" is neutral and accepting. It does not convey a strong emotion or opinion, but rather acknowledges the uncertainty of a situation.

Can “We shall see what we shall see.” be used in informal and formal settings?

This proverb is considered formal and may be more commonly used in written or formal contexts. It is less likely to be used in casual or informal conversations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I'm not sure if it will work out, but we shall see what we shall see.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'We shall see what we shall see.' to imply uncertainty.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

only time will tell
let's wait and see
the future is uncertain
we can't predict the outcome
it remains to be seen

Antonyms

i know for sure
i can guarantee
it's a sure thing
there's no doubt
i have complete confidence