M2.6_Future forms (will, going to), present simple and present continuous

1. Future forms (will, going to), present simple and present continuous

2.6
Future forms (will, going to), present simple
and present continuous
1 In English, there is no future tense. We use different verb forms to talk about the
future, depending on the meaning and purpose of what we are saying.
2 We use will for predictions based on personal knowledge, opinions or feelings.
1 I don’t think I’ll be home early tonight.
2 She’ll be fine, don’t worry!
3 We also use will for spontaneous decisions such as offers, promises, requests and
refusals.
1 Here, I’ll carry that for you, it looks heavy.
2 I promise I won’t do it again.
4 Note that in speaking and informal writing we use the contraction ’ll for will,
especially after subject pronouns.
© Oxford University Press

2. Future forms (will, going to), present simple and present continuous

2.6
Future forms (will, going to), present simple
and present continuous
1 We use going to for predictions based on present evidence.
1 Look at that box, it’s going to fall!
2 Is it going to rain? The clouds are very dark.
2 We also use going to for plans and intentions made before the time of speaking.
1 I’m going to start another course soon.
2 He’s going to move house next month.
© Oxford University Press

3. Future forms (will, going to), present simple and present continuous

2.6
Future forms (will, going to), present simple
and present continuous
1 We use the present simple to talk about scheduled or timetabled events.
1 What time does the bus leave this afternoon?
2 The school year starts late this year: the 7th of September!
3 The film doesn’t start until 9 p.m. Shall we have dinner first?
2 We use the present continuous to talk about personal arrangements and
fixed plans.
1 What are you doing next Saturday?
2 We’re having a dinner party for my brother’s birthday. Can you come?
3 We aren’t inviting lots of people, just a few of his friends.
© Oxford University Press

4.

Future forms (will, going to), present simple
2.6
and present continuous: Practice
1 Correct any mistakes you find.
1 What’s wrong? You look upset! I’m making you a cup of tea.
2 So you’re going to Australia on Monday! Where do you stay?
4 I think he’ll be fine, he looks much better already.
5 What time is the football match going to start?
6 Look at that sunset. It will be a clear day tomorrow.
© Oxford University Press