be going to
use
future plans and intentions
- i am going to have a party for my birthday.
predictions based on present evidence
- look! that boy is going to fall off his bike.
form
affirmative
- subject + am / is / are + going to + …
- she is going to visit her grandparents.
negative
- subject + am / is / are + … + going to + …
- we are not going to attend the meeting.
interrogative
- … + subject + going to + …
- are you going to join the club?
short answers
- yes, you / we / they are.
- yes, he / she / it is.
- no, you / we / they aren't.
- no, he / she / it isn't.
will
use
predictions, beliefs and opinions about the future
- i think they will probably see icebergs.
inevitable future actions or facts
promises
- we will study harder this term.
offers
- i will help you carry those bags.
spontaneous decisions
- i'm tired, i will have a break.
form
affirmative
- subject + i’ll ( … ) + base form of the verb
- they'll finish the project tomorrow.
negative
- subject + … (will not) + base form of the verb
- i will not attend the party.
interrogative
- … + … + base form of the verb
- will they arrive on time?
short answers
- yes, i / you / he / she / it / we / they will.
- no, i / you / he / she / it / we / they won't.
present continuous as future
use
planned future actions with time references
- we are meeting at 8.
- she is coming to the party tonight.
present simple as future
use
programmed events (cinema, theatre, sporting events, etc.)
official timetables
- the plane to london takes off at 8.30.