Future forms (will, going to, present continuous)
Choose will, going to or the present continuous to talk about the future.
15 minElementary
1The grammar
English has several ways to talk about the future. The best form depends on what you want to say.
Use 'will' for decisions you make now, and for offers and promises: I'll help you. Also use it for what you think will happen: I think it will be expensive.
Use 'going to' for plans you already have: We're going to buy a house. Also use it for predictions when you can see something now: Look at those clouds! It's going to rain.
Use the Present Continuous for arrangements with a fixed time, often with another person: I'm meeting Sara at six. For plans and arrangements, 'going to' and the Present Continuous are often both possible.
2Structure and formation
will
Subject + will / won't + base verb
I'll call you tonight.
going to
Subject + am / is / are + going to + base verb
She's going to change jobs.
Present Continuous
Subject + am / is / are + verb-ing + future time
We're flying to Oslo on Monday.
Questions
Will + subject + base verb? Am / Is / Are + subject + going to + base verb?
Will you be there? Are you going to come?
3Examples
I'll carry that for you.
An offer, decided now: will.
I promise I won't be late.
A promise: won't = will not.
I think she'll get the job.
A prediction with 'I think': will.
We're going to paint the kitchen this weekend.
A plan you already have: going to.
Be careful! You're going to drop that glass.
We can see it now: going to.
I'm having lunch with a client tomorrow.
An arrangement: Present Continuous.
4Common mistakes
I will to call you.
I will call you.
After 'will', use the base verb, with no 'to'.
She going to start a course.
She is going to start a course.
'Going to' needs am, is or are before it.
He wills come tomorrow.
He will come tomorrow.
'Will' never takes -s.
I meet my boss tomorrow at ten.
I'm meeting my boss tomorrow at ten.
For a personal arrangement, use the Present Continuous.
5Practical usage
Offers and quick decisions
Use 'will' when you decide while speaking: The phone is ringing. I'll answer it. Those bags look heavy. I'll help you.
Talking about your calendar
Use the Present Continuous for things you have arranged: I'm seeing the dentist on Tuesday. We're leaving at eight.
Now practise it
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