When we want to talk about future facts or things we believe to be true about the future, we use 'will'.
- The President will serve for four years.
- The boss won't be very happy.
- I'm sure you'll like her.
- I'm certain he'll do a good job.
If we are not so certain about the future, we use 'will' with expressions such as 'probably', 'possibly', 'I think', 'I hope'.
- I hope you'll visit me in my home one day.
- She'll probably be a great success.
- I'll possibly come but I may not get back in time.
- I think we'll get on well.
If you are making a future prediction based on evidence in the present situation, use 'going to'.
- Not a cloud in the sky. It's going to be another warm day.
- Look at the queue. We're not going to get in for hours.
- The traffic is terrible. We're going to miss our flight.
- Be careful! You're going to spill your coffee.
At the moment of making a decision, use 'will'. Once you have made the decision, talk about it using 'going to'.
- I'll call Jenny to let her know. Sarah, I need Jenny's number. I'm going to call her about the meeting.
- I'll come and have a drink with you but I must let Harry know. Harry, I'm going to have a drink with Simon.
| Will + infinitive | Be going to + infinitive |
| A decision at the moment of speaking (instant decisions) Julie: There's no milk. John: Really? In that case, I'll go and get some. |
A decision before the moment of speaking (plans or intentions) Julie: There's no milk. John: I know. I'm going to go and get some when this TV programme finishes. |
| A prediction based on opinion: I think the Conservatives will win the next election. |
A prediction based on something we can see (or hear) now: The Conservatives are going to win the election. They already have most of the votes. |
| A future fact: The sun will rise tomorrow. |
|
| For promises / requests / refusals / offers: I'll help you tomorrow, if you like. |
You can now practise with the following exercises:
Exercise1 Exercise2 Exercise3 Exercise4 Exercise5 Exercise6
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