Talking about the future · Grade 4
English has several ways to talk about the future. will is for predictions, promises, offers and quick decisions. be going to is for plans and for things we can see coming. The present continuous is for fixed arrangements with a time and place.
Key facts
- will + base form, the same for every person: I think it will rain. I'll help you. Negative: won't.
- Quick decision: The phone's ringing. I'll get it! Promise: I won't tell anyone.
- am/is/are going to + base form for plans: We are going to visit Cairo next year.
- Evidence now: Look at those clouds! It's going to rain.
- Arrangements: I'm meeting Hana at six. We're flying to Dubai on Friday.
- Questions: Will you come? Are you going to play? What are you doing tomorrow?