Simple Future Tense. In the English language, the future tense is used to express actions, events, or states that are yet to happen. It allows us to talk about future plans, predictions, intentions, and possibilities. One of the common forms of expressing the future tense is the simple future tense. In this article, we will explore the structure, usage, and examples of the simple future tense.
[Also Read: Learning English Language]
Table of Contents
Introduction
Structure of the Simple Future Tense
The simple future tense is formed by using the auxiliary verb “will” or “shall” followed by the base form of the main verb. The structure is as follows:
Subject + will/shall + base form of the verb
Usage of the Simple Future Tense
Predictions and Future Events
The simple future tense is used to make predictions about future events or actions based on the speaker’s beliefs, opinions, or expectations.
Example: It will rain tomorrow.
Future Plans and Intentions
It is used to talk about future plans or intentions, indicating a voluntary action or decision.
Example: I will visit my grandparents next week.
Promises and Offers
The simple future tense is employed to make promises or offers to do something in the future.
Example: I will help you with your homework.
Requests and Invitations
It can also be used to make polite requests or invitations.
Example: Will you pass me the salt, please?
Probability and Possibility
The simple future tense can express probability or possibility regarding future events or actions.
Example: He will probably arrive late.
Examples of the Simple Future Tense
- She will travel to Paris next month.
- They will watch a movie tonight.
- I will buy a new car in the future.
- We shall meet at the park tomorrow.
- He will not attend the meeting.
- Will you join us for dinner?
- The train will arrive in 10 minutes.
- We will start the project next week.
- They will finish the race in record time.
- I will learn to play the guitar.
Usage of Shall and Will in Simple Future Tense
The usage of “shall” and “will” in the simple future tense can sometimes vary based on regional or personal preferences. However, there are some general guidelines to consider when deciding which auxiliary verb to use:
“Will” is the more commonly used auxiliary verb in the simple future tense for both personal and impersonal subjects. It is widely used in everyday English.
Example:
- I will go to the party tomorrow.
- They will arrive late tonight.
“Shall” is used less frequently in modern English and is mainly employed in formal or literary contexts. It is typically used with first-person singular and plural subjects (I and we) to indicate a future action or intention.
Example:
- I shall write a report on the topic.
- We shall discuss the matter further.
In questions, the use of “shall” is more common for suggestions, offers, or invitations with first-person singular or plural subjects.
Example:
- Shall I open the window?
- Shall we go for a walk?
In legal or contractual language, “shall” is often used to express obligations or requirements.
Example:
- The tenant shall pay the rent by the due date.
It’s important to note that the distinction between “shall” and “will” in the simple future tense has become less strict over time, and in many contexts, “will” is used for all persons. The choice between the two often depends on the formality of the situation or personal preferences.
In everyday spoken English, “will” is generally preferred for all subjects, while “shall” is less commonly used. However, in formal writing or certain specific contexts, such as legal or contractual documents, “shall” may be more appropriate. Ultimately, it’s essential to consider the context and the norms of usage when deciding between “shall” and “will” in the simple future tense.
Simple Future Tense Questions
1. What _______ you do tomorrow?
- a) will
- b) did
- c) do
- d) are
Correct answer: a) will
2 . She _______ a new car next month.
- a) buys
- b) bought
- c) will buy
- d) buy
Correct answer: c) will buy
3. _______ they come to the party tonight?
- a) Do
- b) Did
- c) Will
- d) Are
Correct answer: c) Will
4. I _______ you as soon as I arrive.
- a) will call
- b) call
- c) called
- d) have called
Correct answer: a) will call
5. By this time next year, they _______ their new house.
- a) will build
- b) build
- c) built
- d) have built
Correct answer: a) will build
6. She _______ her exams next week.
- a) pass
- b) passed
- c) will pass
- d) passing
Correct answer: c) will pass
7. We _______ a vacation in Europe next summer.
- a) take
- b) took
- c) will take
- d) taking
Correct answer: c) will take
8. _______ you be at the meeting tomorrow?
- a) Are
- b) Were
- c) Will
- d) Have
Correct answer: c) Will
9. He _______ his homework before dinner.
- a) finishes
- b) finished
- c) will finish
- d) finishing
Correct answer: c) will finish
10. What _______ you do if you win the lottery?
- a) do
- b) did
- c) will
- d) have
Correct answer: c) will
In conclusion, the simple future tense is a versatile form that allows us to express future actions, plans, predictions, and intentions. By using the auxiliary verbs “will” or “shall” along with the base form of the verb, we can confidently talk about events that are yet to occur. Whether it is making predictions, stating future plans, or making promises, the simple future tense enables effective communication about the future in English. So, embrace the simple future tense and express your thoughts and intentions for the times yet to come.
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