What is “Will?”
The word “Will” is a short but powerful word that can be used in several ways. It is a verb that expresses a person’s intention, desire, or decision to do something. It is also used to express a command, an order, or a request.
As a verb, “will” can express a promise or a desire to take action. For example, “I will go to the store tomorrow” or “I will call you when I get there.” This use of the word implies a commitment to act.
The word “will” can also express a command, an order, or a request. For example, “You will do as I say” or “Will you please help me?” In this context, the speaker is asking the recipient to act and is expecting compliance.
The word “will” can also be used to express a prediction or a belief. For example, “The sun will rise tomorrow” or “I think he will win the race.” In this context, the speaker expresses a belief or an opinion rather than a command.
Finally, the word “will” can express a wish, a hope, or a desire. For example, “I wish I will find a new job soon” or “I hope she will be happy.” In this context, the speaker is expressing a hope or a desire rather than a command.
What is ‘Going to?’
The phrase “going to” is used in various contexts, but it primarily expresses an intention to do something in the future. It can also be used to talk about the future in general, to make predictions, and to discuss plans and arrangements.
When expressing an intention or plan to do something, the phrase “going to” is followed by a verb in its infinitive form. For example, “I’m going to go shopping tomorrow” or “We’re going to have a picnic this weekend.” Here, the speaker has a specific plan or intention in mind.
The phrase “going to” can also be used to make predictions. For example, “It’s going to rain tomorrow” or “The team is going to win the championship.” In these cases, the speaker has no direct control over the outcome, but they feel confident that the prediction will come true.
Finally, “going to” can be used to talk about pre-arranged plans or arrangements. For example, “I’m going to the movies with my friends tonight” or “We’re going to have dinner at my grandmother’s house on Sunday.” In these cases, the plans have already been made and agreed upon.
Difference Between “Will” and “Going to”
- “Will” is used to express a decision or intention, while “Going to” is used to express a choice based on present evidence.
- “Will” expresses a future event that will occur shortly, while “Going to” is more flexible and can express an event that will happen soon.
- “Will “is more spontaneous, while “Going to” expresses something that is planned.
- “Will” is a modal verb, while going to is not.
- “Will” is more formal, while “Going to” is more informal.
Comparison Between “Will” and “Going to”
| Parameters of comparison | Will | Going to |
| Intention | “Will” expresses a firm intention | “Going to” conveys a less specific sense. |
| Certainty | “Will” expresses something sure to happen. | “Going to,” says something likely to happen. |
| Use | “Will” expresses promises, offers, and requests. | “Going to” is used to express plans and intentions. |
| Grammatical structure | “Will” is used with a simple verb. | “Going to” is used with a verb phrase. |
| Emphasis | “Will” is used to emphasize the speaker’s intention. | “Going to” emphasizes the speaker’s plan or purpose. |