in the cards

phrase

variants or less commonly on the cards
Synonyms of in the cardsnext
: inevitable
success just wasn't in the cards for her

Examples of in the cards in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The start to the 2026 campaign, however, suggests a rebuilding phase is in the cards. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2026 With the Owens sisters returning for another magical outing with Practical Magic 2, a trilogy could be in the cards. — Glenn Garner, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2026 That is potentially in the cards according to Noel Gallagher. — Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 3 Sep. 2026 Olave’s efficiency and target volume have always been strong throughout his career, so a top-12 season was firmly in the cards even with Tyson healthy. — Jonathan Rubin, Charlotte Observer, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in the cards

Word History

First Known Use

1764, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in the cards was in 1764

Rhymes for in the cards

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Browse Nearby Words

in the can
in the cards
in the care of
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In the cards.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20cards. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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