before you know it
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Jones' co-star David Jason said she'd be "off to Hollywood before you know it"
From BBC ● Jul. 3, 2026
You invest that $650, let it compound over time, and before you know it, you’re a multimillionaire retiring by 60.
From MarketWatch ● Apr. 21, 2026
A whir of arms, a flick of his wrist, and the ball has hit you before you know it.
From BBC ● Jun. 22, 2025
“You want to be like your heroes, but before you know it, you’ve bypassed being like them. You become them.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 21, 2025
"And how are you going to control it once you've got a fire going? It hasn't rained for ages. The hills will be ablaze before you know it."
From "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke
