Ways of expressing the future

* There is no future tense in English. Instead , there are several verb forms that can refer to future time

The Present The Present The Present WILL+verb Be GOING TO +verb

Simple tense Continuous tense Perfect tense
1. a future event personal arrangements In the subordinate time 1. a prediction ; it can be based 1. a prediction based on a present physical
based on a timetable or (PLANS) It is often clauses referring to the more on an opinion . It is often fact
calendar (cannot be used with verbs of future if it is important used with expressions such as I Look at the sky ! It’s going to be a lovely
altered ) movement and activity to emphasize that the think ... I hope ... I’m sure .. day .
. action in the subordinate .
My bus leaves at Are you coming to the clause will be finished I think he will pass his exams . 2. a future plan , decision , or intention
10.00 . party tonight ? before the action in the I hope you’ll come and visit me . made before the moment of speaking :
What time does the What are you doing main clause starts . But, I’m sure you’ll win the match .
film start ? tonight ? instead of it , we can When I grow up , I’m going to be a doctor .
It’s my birthday We’re playing tennis always use Simple 2. a decision or intention made at
tomorrow . this afternoon . Present : the moment of speaking :
2.in subordinate
clauses of time and in It is used to refer to When I have finished my The phone is ringing . I’ll get it .
the first conditional : arrangements between homework , I’ll go out . 3. in the main clause when there is
When I get home , I’ll people , not to events a subordinate time clause with
when , before , after , while , as
call him that people can’t
soon as , until ( time clauses
If I call him , he’ll be control.
referring to the future ) and in the
happy .
main clause in the first conditional

If she isn’t careful , she will

break the glass ,
When I finish my homework ,
I’ll go out .
4. to make a request, a promise
or an offer
Will you hold these books for
me?
I promise I won't say that again.