| Different ways of talking or writing about future events in English have different meanings. Here are some examples: PREDICTING future events: -It will probably be difficult to get them to pay on time. -Prices will/are going to go up if the exchange rate changes. -By this time next year, our costs will have risen by 25%. -If the exchange rates change, prices will/are sure to rise. -We'll still be unloading the goods at 3p.m. -Please don't call after 12:30, Mr. Carter will be having lunch then. Describing a PLAN or ARRANGEMENTS: -I'm visiting/I'll be visiting Tokyo in November. -She's arriving/She'll be arriving this evening. Saying what you INTEND to do: -I'm going to chase them up if they haven't delivered by Friday. -I'm going to have lunch early today. Making a PROMISE: -I'll let you know next week. -I'll make sure Mrs. Hanson calls you back as soon as she's free. -Mr. Brown will pick you up at the airport. Referring to FACTS(timetables or schedules): -My plane for Buenos Aires leaves at 14:35. -When do you arrive in Mendoza? -Next Friday is a public holiday in Argentina. Talking about something that is going to happen VERY SOON: -I'm just about to/just going to phone Sydney. -They're just going to/just about to start the meeting. It's sometimes more polite to use will be doing: -When will you be calling Mr. Lee in Singapore? -Will you be seeing Mr. Kwouk while you're in Hong Kong? instead of: When will you...? or Are you going to...?
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