Future tense in English, explaining how to talk about actions that will happen, using will, going to, and more.
The future tense in English is used to talk about actions or events that will happen after the present moment. English has several ways to express the future, including using will, going to, the present continuous, and the simple present for future meaning. This guide will explain the main forms and when to use each one.
Future Forms
English does not have a single "future tense" ending like some other languages. Instead, it uses auxiliary verbs and context. The main forms are:
- Simple Future with will
- Be going to + verb
- Present Continuous for future
- Simple Present for future
Simple Future with will
Use will + base verb to express:
- spontaneous decisions (“I’ll help you.”)
- predictions without strong evidence (“It will rain.”)
- promises or offers (“I will call you.”)
- general future facts (“The meeting will start at 9.”)
Example: She will travel to Japan next year.
Be going to + verb
Use be going to + base verb for:
- planned intentions (“I’m going to study.”)
- predictions with evidence (“Look at those clouds! It’s going to rain.”)
Example: They are going to visit the museum tomorrow.
Present Continuous for future
Use present continuous (am/is/are + verb + -ing) for:
- definite future plans or arrangements, especially with a time/place (“I’m meeting John at 6.”)
Example: We are having dinner at 7 PM.
Simple Present for future
Use simple present for:
- scheduled events or timetables (“The train leaves at 8.”)
- fixed programs (“The store opens at 9.”)
Example: The flight departs at noon.
Time Expressions
Common time expressions that signal future include:
- tomorrow
- next week/month/year
- soon
- later
- in [time] (e.g., in two days)
- by [time] (e.g., by Friday)
- tonight
- on [day]
Example: I’ll see you tomorrow.
Summary
English uses several structures to talk about the future:
- spontaneous or uncertain: will
- planned or evidence-based: going to
- scheduled/arranged: present continuous
- fixed timetables: simple present
Understanding the context helps you choose the right form.
Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025
