Expressing the future

USES  OF "BE GOING TO"                                                                                                                                                                                             

1. We use "going to" to talk about a PLAN for the future or an INTENTION

For example:

A: There is a good film on TV tonight.

B: Yes. I know. I am going to watch it.

A: Why is Betty in a hurry?

B: Because she is going to meet her brother at the station at six.

2. We use "going to" for prediction based on EVIDENCE. The speaker is sure because there are signs about it

For example :

        She is standing at the edge of the cliff. She is going to fall

A: What is the problem? There are strange noises in the lift.

B: I think the lift is going to break down .Let’s get out!

A: I feel cold.

B: Look at those black clouds. It is going to rain.

A: What is the matter with you?

B: I feel terrible. I think I am going to be ill.

                                                                                               Look at the black clouds. It is going to rain.   

"WILL/WON'T

There were two princes, William and Albert, called Will and Al for short. Will was older and more formal. He became king. He was very strict, and said, ‘I will be obeyed. I will make a new law. Everyone will pay more taxes.’ Then he died, and his younger brother Al came to the throne. He said, ‘I’ll (pronounced Al) be  a good king. I’ll make fair laws. I’ll help the poor’. He was popular and friendly, and was known as good king Al.

USES 

1. We use "will" for prediction in the REMOTE future   

For example :

A: How is he, doctor?

B: Don’t worry. He will get better.

A: The bridge is not so safe.

B: Yes. One day it will break down.

2. We use "will" with the adverbs PERHAPS, PROBABLY

We do not use going to in this case.

Perhaps they will support you in the election.

Jackson will probably go to London next year.

3. We generally use "will" for prediction with believe , expect , hope , think , wonder , I’m sure , I’m afraid ...etc

I believe he will pass the exam.

I hope he won’t leave us.

I am afraid he will fail the exam.

Do you think they will divorce?

4. We use "will" for INSTANT DECISIONS

For example :

A: What would you like to drink, sir?

B: I will have a glass of milk, please.

A: Oh, you have left the door open.

B: Have I? I will go and shut it.

5. We use "will" for REQUESTS, INVITATIONS and OFFERS

For example :

Will you shut the door, please? (Request)

Will you come to the cinema with me? (Invitation)

That bag looks very heavy. I will help you. (Offer)

6. We use "will" to express a PROMISE.

I will study medicine at university.

I will never forget you.

7. We use "will" for  THE FIRST CONDITIONAL

If it rains, I won't go to the beach.

Moral of Will and Al story: I’ll (often pronounced Al) sounds less threatening and strict, and more natural than I will.