‘Until Next Time’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

By Sophia Merton, updated on December 5, 2022

Have you heard a newscaster say, ‘until next time’, and you’re wondering what it means? Or did a friend say, ‘until next time’ when the two of you were parting ways? In this article, we’ll explore the definition, meaning, and examples of this idiom.

In short, ‘until next time’ is a friendly and casual way of saying goodbye. This is a closing expression that literally means ‘goodbye until the next time we meet/speak,’ but it can also be used as a kind way to part ways even when you don’t expect to see each other again.

What Does ‘Until Next Time’ Mean?

‘Until the next time’ is a phrase that is used as a closing expression or when saying goodbye to someone that you expect or hope to see again.

In its literal definition, it means ‘goodbye until the next occasion that we meet.’ It is used as a casual way to part ways with someone that doesn’t necessarily imply that you will actually see each other again.

For example, a news anchor or podcaster might end their show with ‘until next time’ even though there is no expectation that you will meet in person. That being said, it does communicate a level of informality and friendliness, implying an amicable relationship with the other person.

In some instances, ‘until next time’ might be used when two people don’t know when they will see each other again. In this case, it communicates a sense that they would like there to be a ‘next time’ that they see each other, but that circumstances might prevent them from actually meeting up again in the near future.

As an example, let’s say that your friend is heading off to college and getting on a train to go to another city far away. Even though you aren’t sure when you’re going to be able to see each other in person again, you might say, ‘until next time!’ before they leave on their journey.

This is an example of a ‘valediction,’ which is a word or phrase used in the act of bidding farewell. Valediction is also the word used to describe words or phrases used to sign off in letters, emails, and messages.

Examples of ‘Until Next Time’ In a Sentence

Since ‘until next time’ is a way of saying goodbye, it is almost always used when parting ways with someone or otherwise ending a communication. Let’s look at some examples in sentences to help you learn how you can incorporate the idiom into your writing and speech.

  • That’s all for tonight folks. Goodbye until next time.
  • It’s been so wonderful to see you all again, and I wish we could get together more often. Until next time, I guess!
  • My grandfather was such a wonderful man that always wanted to make other people feel like they were loved. Even when he was sick and dying, his last words were ‘until next time’!
  • You really have become a regular customer here at the cafe. We’re happy to have you! Have a great day, and goodbye until next time.
  • It’s up to you what we do on our next outing. You can let me know later. I’ve got to run right now! Until next time.
  • This has been a wonderful conference. Thanks, everyone, for coming. Goodbye until next time!
  • Thanks for all your help on this project. I can't thank you enough. I'll keep you posted on how things unfold from here. Until next time!
  • Wow, I can’t believe how fast time flies. I feel like we just got here, and now it’s time to head home again. I want to thank you for such a lovely stay– until next time!

Other Ways to Say ‘Until Next Time’

The idiom ‘until next time’ is a casual and friendly way of saying goodbye to another person or a group of people. There are many other English valedictions you can use that carry a similar tone, including:

  • Goodbye for now
  • See you soon
  • Farewell
  • Bye for now
  • Until we meet again
  • See you later
  • Keep in touch
  • Talk to you later

There are thousands of fun and interesting English idioms that you can learn to add color and depth to your vocabulary. Be sure to check out our idioms blog to help you improve and enrich your English.

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Written By:
Sophia Merton
Sophia Merton is one of the lead freelance writers for WritingTips.org. Sophia received her BA from Vassar College. She is passionate about reading, writing, and the written word. Her goal is to help everyone, whether native English speaker or not, learn how to write and speak with perfect English.

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