Simple future tense in English

Simple future tense is not only commonly used in everyday life, but it is also frequently used in English language tests like IELTS or TOEIC. So, in the article below, PREP will share with readers the definition, structure, usage, and signs of recognition of this particularly important grammar knowledge!

I. What is Simple future tense?

Simple future tense expresses an action that will happen after the time of speaking or at a future point in time. Simple future tense is also used to politely express a request or invitation, or to make a prediction that may occur in the future. Here are some Simple future tense examples:

• Will you please bring me a cup of coffee? 

• She supposes that she will get a better job. 

II. Simple future tense structures

The table below shows the Simple future tense structures, with negative, affirmative, interrogative sentences, and with question words. Please refer to it!

III. How to use Simple future tense

Let's explore with PREP how to use Simple future tense in English!

1. Express an action that will happen immediately after the time of speaking (often spontaneous) or at a future time.

Use Simple future tense to express an action that will happen after the time of speaking or at a future time.

Example:

• My mother will be fifty in May. 

• I am studying English because I will take an English exam tomorrow. 

2. Make a prediction about a future that is likely to happen but without clear evidence.

Use Simple future tense to predict a future that is likely to happen - an event/action that we think will happen, but without clear evidence.

Example:

• In the future, people will live and work in space. 

• James will be here within ten minutes. 

We can use some adverbs like “definitely, probably, and surely” to indicate the degree of certainty.

Example:

• I’ll definitely pass the test. 

• I will surely try my best to get the cup. 

3. Make an offer to help.

Use "shall" when we make decisions or have intentions to do something at the time of speaking, while we haven't made a plan beforehand.

Example:

• Shall I carry the bags for you, Dad? 

• Shall I get you something to eat? 

4. Make a promise.

Use Simple future tense to make a promise to the other person. Example:

• I promise I will write to her every day. 

• My friend will never tell anyone about this. 

5. Issue a warning or threat.

Use Simple future tense to warn or threaten someone. Example:

• Be quiet or John will be angry. 

• Stop talking, or the teacher will send you out. 

6. Provide some suggestions.

The question starting with "Shall we" is a suggestive question. Example:

• Shall we play football? 

• Shall we have Chinese food? 

7. Use in Type I conditional sentences.

Use Simple future tense in Type I conditional sentences, which express a condition that is possible in the present and future. Example:

• If she learns hard, she will pass the exam. 

• If I study hard, I will get the prize. 

IV. Identifying Simple future tense rules

Let's explore together the identifying Simple future tense rules!

V. Near future tense in English

Let's explore together the definition, structure, and identifying signs of Near future tense!

1. Definition

Near future tense expresses a specific planned/intended action in the near future. Actions in Near future tense all have a plan, purpose, and specific intention.

Example:

• I am going to see a film at the cinema tonight. 

• Are you going to fly to America this weekend? 

2. Structure of Near future tense

3. Identifying signs

4. How to use Near future tense

There are 2 ways to use Near future tense:

• To talk about a future plan or intention that we have made beforehand: I'm going to apply for a new job.

• To predict a future event based on current observations and clear evidence: Look! It's going to rain very soon.

• To talk about an expected action/event: I'm not going to finish this copying by three o'clock! Because it is 2.51 and there's a lot to do.

VI. Distinguishing between Simple future tense and Near future tense

So how are Simple future tense and Near future tense different? Let's explore this together, shall we?

VII. Exercises on Simple future tense and the near future

To better understand the uses of Simple future tense and Near future tense, let's complete the exercises below!

1. Exercise

Exercise 1: Put the verbs in parentheses in Simple future tense

1. I (call) you when I arrive home.

2. They (travel) to Europe next summer.

3. James (start) her new job on Monday.

4. We (have) dinner at 7 PM tomorrow.

5. Jack (finish) his homework before going to bed.

Exercise 2: Put the verbs in parentheses in Near future tense

1. Anna (buy) a new car this weekend to travel around the world.

2. They (move) to a new house next month.

3. We (visit) our relatives during the holidays.

4. John (start) his new job on Monday.

5. They (celebrate) their anniversary next week.

2. Answer

The article above is an overview of Simple future tense and Near future tense in English. Hopefully, this grammatical knowledge will help you achieve high scores in important English exams. So what are you waiting for, start your review right away! Wishing the Preppies great success in reaching your target scores!