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Master English Grammar

Will vs. Going to (Differences)

Learn the difference between will and going to when talking about the future. Understand when to use I will call vs. I’m going to call.

What’s the Difference Between 'Will' and 'Going to'?

'Will' is used for spontaneous decisions, promises, or predictions without evidence. 'Going to' is used for planned actions or predictions based on evidence.

Why Is This Important?

Using 'will' and 'going to' correctly helps make your future statements clearer and more accurate.

How to Use 'Will' and 'Going to'

'Will' is used for sudden decisions, promises, offers, and uncertain predictions.
'Going to' is used for planned actions and predictions based on evidence.

Common Examples

I will help you with your homework. (Spontaneous offer)
She is going to start a new job next month. (Planned action)

Key Points

  • Use 'will' for spontaneous decisions
    • I just heard the news. I will call her now.
    • It’s cold. I will close the window.
  • Use 'will' for promises and offers
    • I will always love you.
    • Don't worry, I will help you.
  • Use 'going to' for planned actions
    • We are going to visit London next summer.
    • She is going to start a new job next week.
  • Use 'going to' for predictions with evidence
    • Look at those dark clouds! It is going to rain.
    • He is running fast. He is going to win.

Rules for Using 'Will' vs. 'Going to'

  • Use 'will' for spontaneous decisions

    • I forgot my keys. I will go back and get them.
    • I’m hungry. I will order some food.
    • Wait a second. I will help you.

  • Use 'will' for promises, offers, and threats

    • I will always support you.
    • I will lend you some money.
    • If you don’t stop, I will call the police!

  • Use 'going to' for planned actions

    • We are going to travel to Italy next year.
    • She is going to start a new job.
    • They are going to move to a new apartment.

  • Use 'going to' for predictions with evidence

    • The sky is dark. It is going to rain.
    • Look at that traffic! We are going to be late.
    • He is coughing a lot. He is going to get sick.

  • Special Cases & Exceptions:

    In spoken English, 'going to' is often pronounced as 'gonna'.

  • 'Will' and 'going to' can sometimes be interchangeable in predictions.

    • It will be a great party.
    • It is going to be a great party.

  • 'Going to' is used for plans, but 'will' is used for firm promises.

    • Correct: I am going to visit my grandma next week.
    • Incorrect: I will visit my grandma next week. (unless it’s a promise)
ExampleTenseUse
I will call her now.Future Simple'Will' for spontaneous decisions
She is going to call her later.Future (Going to)'Going to' for planned actions
Look at the sky! It is going to rain.Future (Going to)'Going to' for predictions with evidence
Don’t worry, I will help you.Future Simple'Will' for promises and offers

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the creators of these videos. These are publicly available resources used to provide additional information on the topic.