Simple Future Tense in English Grammar

What is Simple Future Tense

The simple future tense is used to describe actions that will occur in the future. It's important to remember that an action in the simple future tense begins and ends in the future.

Refer to the definitions below from different dictionaries to get a clearer understanding of the simple future tense.

Simple Future Tense Definition

The Simple Future Tense, as defined by the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, is “the form of a verb used to express what will occur after the present moment.” Merriam-Webster describes it as “a verb tense that refers to future events.” According to the Collins Dictionary, it is “a tense used when describing actions or events that will happen after the time of speaking.” The Macmillan Dictionary explains it as a tense that shows actions or events “expected to occur or exist during the time following now.”

Formula and Simple Future Tense Structure

Let's examine the structure and formula of the simple future tense. First, review the formula to understand how this tense functions:

Simple Future Tense Formula:

Subject + Helping Verb (will) + Base Form of the Verb + Rest of the Sentence

Next, consider how the structure of the simple future tense varies in positive, negative, interrogative, and negative interrogative sentences.

Another way to express the simple future tense is by using the verb ‘to be’ combined with ‘going to’. Review the table below to see how it’s applied.

Guidelines and Key Points for Using the Simple Future Tense

• The simple future tense always includes two verbs: the auxiliary verb (will) and the base form of the main verb.

• For interrogative sentences, start with the auxiliary verb ‘will’, followed by the subject and the base form of the main verb.

• Negative sentences use ‘not’ after the auxiliary verb ‘will’.

• The auxiliary verb ‘will’ indicates that the tense refers to an event that will happen in the future.

What is the Simple Future Tense Used for?

Understanding the different scenarios where the simple future tense applies will help you use it more effectively. Here’s a summary of how the simple future tense can be utilised:

• To describe events or actions that will happen soon.

• To make predictions or guesses about future events.

• To express factual statements about what will occur in the future.

• To ask questions about future actions or events.

• To consider future outcomes, conditions, or possibilities.

• To issue commands or instructions in imperative sentences.

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Simple Future Tense Examples

Examine the examples below to understand how the simple future tense can be applied in the different ways mentioned.

Describing Events or Actions that will Occur in future:

1. She will start her new job next week.

2. The team will meet for a project discussion tomorrow.

Predicting Future Events

1. The weather forecast says it will rain tomorrow.

2. I think she will win the competition next week.

Stating a Fact About What will Happen in the Future

1. She will graduate from college next year.

2. The sun will rise at 6:30 a.m. tomorrow.

Inquiring About Future Events

1. Will she travel to Paris next summer?

2. Are they going to finish the project by next week?

Considering Future Outcomes, Possibilities, or Conditions

1. If it rains tomorrow, we will have to cancel the outdoor event.

2. When she finishes her studies, she will look for a job in the city.

Issuing Instructions or Commands

1. I will complete the report by tomorrow.

2. She will send the invitations by the end of the day.

This chart explains the structure of the Simple Future Tense. It helps to form sentences in a better way.

Test Your Knowledge On Simple Future Tense Sentences

1. Write five sentences using the simple future tense to describe your plans for the weekend or holiday.

2. Change the following sentences from present tense to simple future tense.

1. She reads a book.

2. They play football.

3. He studies hard.

4. We travel to London.

5. I finish my homework.

3. Rewrite the following sentences in their negative form using the simple future tense.

1. She will visit her friend.

2. They will eat out for dinner.

3. He will take the test.

4. We will go to the beach.

5. I will buy a new phone.

4. Create five questions in the simple future tense that you might ask someone about their plans.

5. Write three commands or instructions in the simple future tense.

Here you go—Check if your answers match the ones below!

1.

• I will visit my grandparents on Saturday.

• We will have a picnic in the park if it is sunny.

• She will start a new book this weekend.

• They will watch a movie at the cinema.

• He will cook dinner for his family.

2.

1. She will read a book.

2. They will play football.

3. He will study hard.

4. We will travel to London.

5. I will finish my homework.

3.

1. She will not visit her friend.

2. They will not eat out for dinner.

3. He will not take the test.

4. We will not go to the beach.

5. I will not buy a new phone.

4.

1. Will you go to the party tonight?

2. What time will you arrive at the airport?

3. Will they join us for dinner?

4. How will she get to the meeting?

5. Will you help me with my project?

5.

1. You will complete your assignment by Monday.

2. She will call her friend tomorrow.

3. They will meet us at the park later.

Takeaways from This Page

• Students can learn how to describe actions or events that will happen in the future using the simple future tense.

• Formula for constructing simple future tense sentences: Subject + will + base form of the verb + the rest of the sentence.

• Students can understand the difference between using 'will' and 'going to' for expressing future actions or plans.

• Recognize how to form positive, negative, and interrogative sentences in the simple future tense.