When we want to talk about future facts or things
we believe to be true about the future, we use 'will'.
·
The President
will serve for four years.
·
The boss
won't be very happy.
·
I'm sure
you'll like her.
·
I'm certain
he'll do a good job.
If we are not so certain about the future, we use
'will' with expressions such as 'probably', 'possibly', 'I think', 'I hope'.
·
I hope you'll
visit me in my home one day.
·
She'll
probably be a great success.
·
I'll possibly
come but I may not get back in time.
·
I think we'll
get on well.
If you are making a future prediction based on
evidence in the present situation, use 'going to'.
·
Not a cloud
in the sky. It's going to be another warm day.
·
Look at the
queue. We're not going to get in for hours.
·
The traffic
is terrible. We're going to miss our flight.
·
Be careful!
You're going to spill your coffee.
At the moment of making a decision, use 'will'.
Once you have made the decision, talk about it using 'going to'.
·
I'll call
Jenny to let her know. Sarah, I need Jenny's number. I'm going to call her
about the meeting.
·
I'll come and
have a drink with you but I must let Harry know. Harry, I'm going to have a
drink with Simon.
