There are different forms to express future time. You may use any of the following form:
- GOING TO
- WILL
- PRESENT PROGRESSIVE / PRESENT CONTINOUS
- SIMPLE PRESENT
You have to have in mind that sometimes only one form of future may be correct or appropriate whereas in many cases more than one form might be acceptable.
e.g.:
They are going to have a meeting at our premises next week.
I don't thik Bob will come tomorrow.
My parents are flying to New York in December.
The class starts at 8:00 am this Monday.
If you want to talk about facts or events that you are certain will happen in the future you may use:
- Going to
- Will
Mr. Brown is going to arrive tomorrow morning at 9:00 am
Mr. Brown will arrive tomorrow morning at 9:00 am
if you want to make predictions about events that you are sure will take place in the future, you may use:
- Going to
- Will
We are going to gradute next month.
We will graduate next month.
If you make a prediction about an event you are quite sure will take place in the future you may use;
- Going to
- Will
I think Joan is going to get the job.
I think Joan will get the job.
If you refer to an event that you see is about to happen or to an evidence that make you think will take place you can only use:
- "GOING TO"
Look at those dark clouds! It's going to rain, we'd better hurry.
Don't drive so fast! We are going to crash if you don't slow down.
If we refer to decisions made at the time of speaking, or we make an invitation or an offer, or we make a promise we will use:
- "WILL"
A: There is a new cafeteria on the corner of the street.
B: Great! I'll try it after class.
A: It's so cold in here.
B: I'll close the windows
A: I forgot my wallet at home.
B: Don't worry I'll lend you some money if you want.
A: Thanks, I'll pay you when we get back tomorrow.
when talking about schedules like time tables, programs or schedules we usually use verbs like start, leave, and begin with:
- SIMPLE PRESENT
My train leaves at 10:00 am
My English class starts at 7:00 pm
