Using “will” and “going to” correctly is important when talking about the future in English. Both forms describe future actions, but they are not always used the same way. “Will” is usually used for spontaneous decisions, promises, and predictions based on opinions, while “going to” is used for future plans, intentions, and predictions based on evidence.
In this article, you’ll learn the difference between “will” and “going to,” how to use them correctly, see simple grammar rules, sentence structures, contractions, and clear examples. Whether you’re planning something, making a decision, or predicting the future, this guide will help you speak and write with confidence.
When to Use Will
“Will” is a modal verb used to express future actions that are decided at the moment, predictions, offers, promises, and spontaneous decisions.
1. Spontaneous Decisions
You decide something in the moment while speaking.
Examples:
- I’m tired. I think I’ll go to bed early.
- It’s raining! I will get the umbrella.
2. Promises & Offers
To make a promise, offer, or request.
Examples:
- Don’t worry, I will help you.
- I will call you when I arrive.
3. Predictions Based on Beliefs or Opinions
You’re making a guess about the future without current evidence.
Examples:
- I think they will win the match.
- I’m sure you will love this movie.
4. Formal Statements / Announcements
Often used in formal writing or speech.
Examples:
- The President will visit the city next week.
- The store will open at 9 AM.
When to Use Going to
“Going to” is used for plans and intentions already decided and predictions based on evidence.
1. Planned Future Actions
You decided to do something before the moment of speaking.
Examples:
- I’m going to study medicine at university.
- We’re going to meet them at 5 PM.
2. Intentions
What you want or plan to do in the future.
Examples:
- She’s going to start a new job next month.
- I’m going to stop eating junk food.
3. Predictions with Present Evidence
You see something happening and predict the result.
Examples:
- Look at those clouds! It’s going to rain.
- He’s driving too fast — he’s going to crash!
Will vs Going to: Sentence Structure
Both “will” and “going to” are used to talk about the future, but their sentence structures are different. This section shows you how to form affirmative, negative, and question sentences correctly with each one, using clear patterns and example sentences.
Will – Basic Form
| Type | Structure | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Affirmative | Subject + will + base verb | I will call you later. |
| Negative | Subject + will not (won’t) + base verb | She won’t come to the meeting. |
| Question | Will + subject + base verb? | Will they arrive on time? |
Going to – Basic Form
| Type | Structure | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Affirmative | Subject + am / is / are + going to + base verb | They are going to travel next week. |
| Negative | Subject + am / is / are + not + going to + base verb | He isn’t going to attend the party. |
| Question | Am / Is / Are + subject + going to + base verb? | Are you going to join us? |
Contractions: Will vs. Going to
Contractions are shortened forms of words used in everyday English. “Will” and “going to” often appear in contractions, especially in spoken and informal writing. Here are the most common ones with examples.
-
I will → I’ll
I’ll be there at 8. -
You will → You’ll
You’ll love this movie. -
He will → He’ll
He’ll call you later. -
She will → She’ll
She’ll bring the snacks. -
It will → It’ll
It’ll be fine. -
We will → We’ll
We’ll meet you at the station. -
They will → They’ll
They’ll arrive soon. -
Will not → Won’t
I won’t forget. -
Going to → Gonna (informal)
I’m gonna go now. (only in speech, not writing)
