Guide to English grammar

81 Overview: the future
1 Will • 71 Be going to • 72
A prediction
Scotland will win the game.
An instant decision
I think I'll buy a ticket.
An offer
I'll help you.
A prediction based on the present
Scotland are going to win the game.
An intention
I'm going to buy a ticket, I've decided.
2 Present simple • 73 Present continuous • 73
A timetable
The game starts at 3.00 pm.
In a sub clause • 77
We must get there before the game starts.
An arrangement
I'm playing in the team tomorrow.

3 Future continuous • 75 An action over a future period I'll be working all day Saturday. The result of a routine or arrangement I've got ajob in a shop. I'll be working on Saturday. 4 Be to • 76	Be about to • 78
An official arrangement	The near future

The conference is to take The players are on the field. The

place in November. game is about to start.

5	Future perfect • 79 Something that will be over in the future The game will havefinished by halfpast four.
6	Would • 80	Was going to • 80

Looking forward from the past

At half time we thought
Scotland would win.
Looking forward from the past
At half time we thought
Scotland were going to win.
Past intention or arrangement
I was going to watch the match,
butIwasill.