The term 'Near Future' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: OFFING (6 letters) and SHORTRUN (8 letters). OFFING refers to the near future, usually within a few days or weeks. SHORTRUN is a term used to describe a situation that will only last for a short period of time, typically less than a year. Together, these two terms refer to a period of time that is close at hand but not necessarily immediate.