THE FUTURE UNIT 7 GRAMMAR

Introduction

We use four different verb tenses to talk about the future:

1. Present Simple

2. Present Continuous

3. Be going to

4. Will

1. Present Simple

We use the Present Simple when talking about events on a definite timetable or program.

The football match starts at 4 p.m. You may find some of these verbs:

To be, open, close, begin, start, end, finish, arrive, come, leave, return.

2. Present Continuous

We use the Present Continous when we talk about a definite plan or a fixed arrangement (+time/ place reference):

I’m meeting Ann tomorrow at ten at the café.

3. Be going to

We use the verb “be” going to for:

-predictions based on evidence:

Look! He’s going to fall down!

-intentions, plans or decisions made before the time of speaking:

He’s going to study German next year.

4.Will

The verb will/won’t + bare infinitive is

used for:

-making general predictions:

By 2050, most people will live to 120.

-talking about decisions made at the time of speaking (immediate decisions):

“I’m cold” “I’ll close the window”