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The future simple is not the only way to speak about the future in English. Here's an outline of the main English tenses and structures used to talk about the future, with uses and examples.
1. Will + base verb (FUTURE SIMPLE)
Form: will + infinitive
Example: I will call you later.
Uses: Instant decisions, promises, offers and requests, predictions based on opinion (not evidence)
Keywords: think, believe, probably, maybe
2. Going to + base verb
Form: am/is/are + going to + infinitive
Example: She is going to start a new job.
Uses: Plans or intentions already decided, predictions based on present evidence
Keywords: look at, planned, decided
3. Present continuous (future meaning)
Form: am/is/are + verb-ing
Example: We're meeting the client tomorrow.
Uses: Fixed arrangements (often with time/place mentioned), personal schedules
Keywords: tomorrow, next week, at 5 p.m.
4. Present simple (future meaning)
Form: base verb / third person -s
Example: The train leaves at 7:30.
Uses: Timetables and schedules, official or fixed events
Common with: transport, classes, events
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