📘 Part of the Complete English Course · Elementary (A2), week 2
English has two very common ways to talk about the future. Use 'going to' for plans you've already made, and 'will' for decisions you make now, offers and promises.
The rules
Going to
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
| plans and intentions | We're going to look at a flat on Saturday. |
| predictions from what you see | Look at those clouds. It's going to rain. |
Will
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
| decisions at the moment of speaking | It's cold. I'll close the window. |
| offers and promises | I'll help you move. I'll call you tomorrow. |
| general predictions | I think you'll like the new place. |
Remember
- Form: am / is / are + going to + verb. I'm going to apply.
- Form: will ('ll) + verb. Negative: won't. I won't be late.
- In speech, 'going to' often sounds like 'gonna'. Don't write 'gonna' in formal writing.
- Use 'I think… will' for opinions about the future.
Listen and repeat
- I'm going to move to a new apartment next month.
- Don't worry, I'll pay the bond today.
- Are you going to sign the lease?
- The agent says she'll call me back this afternoon.
Common mistakes
| Not this | Say this | Why |
|---|---|---|
| I'll call you. | No 'to' after will. | |
| I'm going to rent a flat. | Don't forget am/is/are. | |
| Tomorrow I'm going to apply. | Use going to for plans. |
Check yourself
Loading questions…
Frequently asked questions
When do we use going to / will in English?
English has two very common ways to talk about the future. Use 'going to' for plans you've already made, and 'will' for decisions you make now, offers and promises. Form: am / is / are + going to + verb. I'm going to apply.
What are common mistakes with going to / will?
Say 'I'll call you.', not 'I will to call you.' (No 'to' after will). Say 'I'm going to rent a flat.', not 'I going to rent a flat.' (Don't forget am/is/are). Say 'Tomorrow I'm going to apply.', not 'Tomorrow I go to apply.' (Use going to for plans).
What level is this going to / will lesson?
It's a Elementary (A2) lesson, week 2 of the free Complete English Course. It takes about 10 minutes and ends with a quiz.