Simple future

Definition

The simple future is a verb tense used to describe actions that will occur after the present time. This tense indicates that something will happen in the future, often using the auxiliary verb 'will' followed by the base form of the main verb. Understanding the simple future is essential for expressing predictions, plans, and intentions regarding future events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The simple future tense is formed using 'will' plus the base form of the verb, as in 'I will go.'
2. It can also be formed using 'be going to' for expressing intentions or plans, as in 'I am going to visit my friend.'
3. The simple future tense is often used for making predictions about future events based on current evidence.
4. Questions and negative statements in the simple future tense can be formed by placing 'will' before the subject for questions and adding 'not' for negatives, e.g., 'Will you come?' or 'I will not come.'
5. This tense is commonly used in both spoken and written English to express certainty about future actions.

Review Questions

• How is the simple future tense constructed, and what role does the auxiliary verb play in its formation?
  • The simple future tense is constructed by using 'will' followed by the base form of the main verb, such as in 'I will eat.' The auxiliary verb 'will' serves to indicate that the action is set to occur after the present time. This construction helps convey certainty about a future event and distinguishes it from other tenses like the present or past.
• In what contexts would you choose to use 'be going to' instead of 'will' when forming simple future sentences?
  • 'Be going to' is often preferred over 'will' when expressing intentions or plans that have already been decided prior to speaking. For example, if someone says, 'I am going to start studying for my exam,' it indicates a premeditated decision. In contrast, 'will' might be used for spontaneous decisions made at the moment of speaking or for making predictions based on current evidence.
• Evaluate how understanding the simple future tense can enhance one's ability to communicate effectively in English.
  • Understanding the simple future tense allows speakers and writers to clearly convey their intentions and predictions about upcoming events, which is essential for effective communication. By mastering this tense, individuals can express plans or make forecasts confidently, facilitating better interaction and comprehension in both casual and formal settings. Moreover, being adept at using various forms of future tenses can lead to more nuanced expressions of time and intention, enriching one's language skills overall.

Related terms

future continuous: A verb tense that describes actions that will be ongoing at a specific time in the future, formed with 'will be' followed by the present participle of the main verb.

future perfect: A verb tense used to indicate that an action will be completed before a specific point in the future, typically formed with 'will have' followed by the past participle of the main verb.

auxiliary verb: A helping verb used in conjunction with a main verb to form different tenses, moods, or voices; in simple future, 'will' is the primary auxiliary verb.