Business English B1 · Lesson 3A

Grammar Bank

The rules behind this lesson — form, use, model sentences and the mistakes to avoid.

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Grammar focus of this lesson

Future forms — will vs going to

2 structures

will (predictions & offers)
Spontaneous decisions, offers, promises and predictions.
I've got this
Rules & form
- ›will / 'll / won't + base verb, same for all persons.
- ›Offers: I'll help you with that. Promises: I won't forget.
- ›Predictions with I think / I'm sure / probably.
- ›Shall I…? for offers in British English.
Examples
- “I'll get back to you before the end of the day.”
- “I'm sure they'll accept the revised terms.”
- “Shall I book the room?”
Watch out · Pre-made plans belong to going to, not will.
Your own example
going to (plans & intentions)
Intentions already formed before the conversation.
I've got this
Rules & form
- ›be going to + base verb.
- ›Signals commitment: the decision is made.
- ›Evidence-based predictions: This is going to be tight.
- ›Past: was going to = intention that didn't happen.
Examples
- “We're going to open two new markets next year.”
- “I was going to call, but the meeting overran.”
- “Are they going to renew the contract?”
Watch out · Sudden decisions take will, not going to.
Your own example