Pronunciation: [ˈe͡ə lˈɒŋ] (IPA) 
The phrase "ere long" is an archaic way of saying "soon" or "before long." Its spelling may seem unusual, but it follows the rules of Early Modern English. "Ere" is pronounced /ɛr/, rhyming with "air." "Long" is pronounced /lɒŋ/, rhyming with "song." When put together, the phrase is pronounced /ɛr lɒŋ/. Although not commonly used today, "ere long" can add a poetic flair to your writing or speech.
Ere long is an idiomatic phrase that is used to indicate a relatively short period of time before something happens or occurs. Derived from Middle English and Early Modern English, "ere" means "before" or "prior to," while "long" refers to a considerable duration or period. The phrase is often employed in a poetic or literary context to convey a sense of anticipation, expectancy, or immediacy.
Ere long suggests that an event or action is about to happen within a concise timeframe or shortly. It suggests that the occurrence is imminent or forthcoming, but does not provide an exact measure of time. The phrase implies a certain level of urgency or importance attached to the impending event. It can be used in various scenarios, such as describing the arrival of someone, the happening of a significant event, or the completion of a task.
For instance, one could say, "Ere long, the sun will set and give way to the night," indicating that the sunset is moments away. Another example might be, "Ere long, she will finish her studies and begin her career," signifying that the completion of her studies is soon and her career will commence shortly thereafter.
In summary, ere long is an idiomatic expression used to convey that something will occur in the near future, emphasizing the imminent or forthcoming nature of the event without specifying an exact timeframe.
A contraction for "before long time," or "before a long time shall elapse".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The expression "ere long" is a shortened form of the phrase "before long". "Ere" is an archaic word meaning "before" or "prior to", and "long" simply refers to a period of time.
The word "ere" has its roots in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "ær" meaning "early" or "before". It shares its origins with the modern English word "before". The term "long" is derived from Old English "lang", which has the same meaning as the present-day word.
Overall, the etymology of "ere long" can be traced back to Old English and has maintained its meaning throughout linguistic changes over the centuries.
