Will & Be Going To
The most common ways to express future time in English is by using "will" and "be going to."
Click the "play" arrow to listen to the explanations.
When should you use will? When should you use be going to?
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To express this meaning: |
Use this: |
Example sentences |
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will be going to
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According to the weather report, it will be cloudy tomorrow. According to the weather report, it is going to be cloudy tomorrow. |
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be going to |
I am going to the movies tomorrow night. The President is going to make a speech. |
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will |
The phone is ringing. I will (I'll Dinner's almost ready. Will you set the table for me? |
(Put your mouse over the words in the left column to see the definition.)
Be going to - Always conjugate the verb "be" to agree with the subject.
- Ben is going to visit his grandmother for Christmas vacation. (plan)
- They are going to take a trip to Europe. (plan)
- It is going to rain soon. I see grey clouds. (prediction)
Will - Never conjugate "will." (Will is a modal auxiliary verb.
Use the simple/base form of the main verb after "will.")
- Harry is studying medicine. He will be an excellent doctor. (prediction)
- The phone is ringing. I will (I'll) get it. (willingness)
Try this Sorting Activity to test your understanding of predictions, prior plans, and willingess.
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Click the red card to view it. Then, decide whether the sentences describe a prediction, a prior plan, or a willingess (decision made at the moment of speaking). Drag the card to the correct category. |
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Try the Quiz Group below to test your understanding of when to use "will" vs. "be going to." Use the table above to help you.
