Talking About The Future
There are various ways to talk about the future in English. We usually use patterns containing “… will …” or “… going to …” but there are other ways as well.
(1) When you know something will happen just use the present tense.
“The flight to Paris leaves at 9 o’clock tomorrow morning.”
“The new ECG machine arrives tomorrow.”
“We’re having a meeting about the novel coronavirus next Tuesday.”
“You’re seeing Mr Watson next, he’s been having chest pains.”
(2) When you are guessing what will happen use “will” or “going to”.
“I’m sure Mrs. Takahashi will be ok, she just has a slight fever.”
“I think it’s going to be warm and sunny tomorrow. Let’s have a picnic.”
(3) When you’re guessing what will happen, based on present evidence, use “going to”.
“It’s past 6pm already, we’re going to be late.”
“Look at those dark clouds, it’s going to rain.”
(4) To warn someone about something happening soon, use “going to”
“You’re driving too fast, you’re going to crash!”
(5) When you’re making an offer or a promise to somebody use “I will”. (I’ll)
“I will help you move your desk.”
“I’ll meet you in Starbucks as soon as I’ve finished my work.”
(6) When you’re telling someone your plan or someone else’s plan, use “going to”.
“I’m going to ask to change jobs later this year.”
“Dr. Suzuki is going to email you this afternoon”
(7) When you’re explaining a plan you’ve just made, use “will”
“There’s a pharmacy, I’ll quickly check to see if they have any masks”
“I just heard Mei is sick, I’ll visit her at lunchtime”