The Future with “Going to”

 









When we want to talk about the future in English, one of the most common structures is “going to + verb.”
It’s simple, natural, and widely used in everyday conversation. But do you know exactly when and how to use it? Let’s break it down step by step.

✅ Structure of "Going to"

The basic STRUCURE is:

Subject + be (am/is/are) + going to + base verb

Examples:

  • I am going to study tonight.

  • She is going to travel to Paris.

  • They are going to watch a movie.

Notice how the verb “to be” (am, is, are) always comes before going to.

📝 When to Use "Going to"

1. Plans and Intentions

We use “going to” when we already decided to do something in the future.

Examples:

  • I am going to start a new job next week.

  • He is going to learn Spanish this year.

💡 Think of it as something already in your mind – a plan or decision.

2. Predictions Based on Evidence

We also use “going to” when we make predictions about the future, especially when we have present evidence.

Examples:

  • Look at those dark clouds! It is going to rain.

  • She looks pale. She is going to faint.

💡 Here, the speaker sees evidence now that points to what will happen.

❌ Common Mistakes with "Going to"

  1. Forgetting the verb “to be”:
    ❌ I going to play football.
    ✅ I am going to play football.

  2. Mixing it with Present Continuous:
    ❌ She is play going to tennis.
    ✅ She is going to play tennis.

🔄 "Going to" vs. "Will"

Both “going to” and “will” talk about the future, but they are not always the same:

  • Will = quick decisions, promises, offers, predictions without evidence.

    • Example: I think Brazil will win the match.

  • Going to = plans or predictions based on evidence.

    • Example: Brazil is playing well. They are going to win.

🎯 Quick Practice

Complete the sentences with “going to”:

  1. I __________ (visit) my grandmother tomorrow.

  2. Look at that car! It __________ (crash).

  3. We __________ (study) for the test after lunch.

JOT DOWN “going to,” you’ll sound more natural when talking about your plans, intentions, and predictions in English. It’s one of the simplest future forms, but also one of the most powerful in everyday conversation!

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