PREDICTIONS

Predictions

We can make predictions about the future using the future forms will and going to followed by the infinitive of the main verb.

• According to scientists’ observations, about 100 tons of debris is going to fall from the sky this year.
• Space junk will eventually fall into Earth’s atmosphere.

WHEN WE USE?

We use will to make simple predictions about future events or situations.

• I will make more money next year. (I’m quite sure this will happen)

WHEN WE USE?

We use going to for future predictions when there is present evidence about a future event.

• I am going to make more money next year. (I know this will happen because my boss just told me)

WHEN WE USE?

We use about to followed by the infinitive when something is going to happen immediately.

• Spacecraft have shielding technology that detects debris that is about to collide with the craft. (The spacecraft detects debris just before it hits the craft)

WHEN WE USE?

May and might are also followed by the infinitive of the main verb. We use them in predictions to talk about possibility. This means that something is possible in the future, but not certain.

• They might start doing the same.
• They may come down in populated areas.