The Future

The Future

 

Will/Shall

When we give information about the future or predict future events that are not certain we usually use shall/will.

For example:- Q) Who do you think will win the election?" A) "I'm not sure but I think the current party will win."

We can also use shall/will to make promises for the future.

When leaving work I would say - "Goodnight, I'll (I will) see you tomorrow."

Shall/Will is often used when we just decide to do something.

For example:- The phone is ringing - If I decide to answer the phone I would say - "I'll (I will) get it."

It can also be used in formal situations to express planned events and is preferred in formal written English.

For example:- The party will start at 10.00pm. -

 

To Be Going to

We say something is going to happen when it has already been planned.

For example:- Q) Are you going to fly to Germansy? A) No, we're going to drive.

We also use it to show something has already been decided.

For example:- "We're going to buy a new car next year."

We also use going to when we can see something is about to happen.

For example:- "Look at that cloud. I think it's going to rain."   and  "Watch out! He's going to crash into that tree!"

 

Present Simple

When something is arranged according to a fixed schedule we use the Present Simple to talk about the future.

For example: -"The plane lands at six o'clock."

 

Present Continuous

When you plan to do something in the near future (in a couple of days) you can use the Present Continuous.

for example: -"We are meeting him this afternoon."