Simple Future Tense: Definition, Rules and Useful Examples • 7ESL

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The simple future tense is used to describe actions that will happen in the future. It helps people talk about plans, predictions, and other future events. For example, saying “I will go to the store” indicates a plan to visit the store at a later time.

This tense uses the word “will” or “shall” followed by a verb. It’s very straightforward and easy to use, making it essential for clear communication about future actions. Many students find it helpful because it’s simple and direct.

People use the simple future tense every day without thinking about it. From making promises to describing upcoming events, this tense keeps conversations clear and focused on what will happen next. It’s a key part of mastering English and being able to communicate effectively.

Understanding Simple Future Tense

Simple Future Tense describes actions that will happen in the future. It is essential for talking about plans, predictions, and promises.

Definition and Usage

The Simple Future Tense is used to express actions that have not yet occurred but will take place later. Words like “will” and “shall” are often used to form this tense.

People use it for predictions: “It will rain tomorrow.” They also use it for decisions made at the moment: “I will call you later.” Promises and offers can also be expressed: “I will help you with your homework.”

Everyday conversations, stories, and written texts often include this tense. It helps in making communication clear about future intentions or events.

Formation of Simple Future Tense

To form the Simple Future Tense, use the auxiliary verbs “will” or “shall” followed by the base form of the main verb.

Examples:

I will eat dinner at 7 PM.
She will finish her project next week.

For negative sentences, add “not” after “will” or “shall” (e.g., “will not” or “shall not”):

He will not attend the meeting.
They shall not pass this way again.

In questions, place “will” or “shall” at the beginning:

Will you join us for coffee?
Shall we start the game now?

These rules make it easy to talk about future plans, promises, and predictions. The structure is simple and clear.

Structures of Simple Future Tense

The simple future tense is used to express actions that will happen in the future. Below are the different structures used to form affirmative sentences, negative sentences, interrogative sentences, and short answers.

Affirmative Sentences

Affirmative sentences in the simple future tense are used to state what will happen. They follow this structure:

Subject + will + base verb

Examples:

She will travel to Europe next year.
They will start their project tomorrow.

Note that “will” is used with all subjects (I, you, he, she, it, we, they).

Negative Sentences

Negative sentences in the simple future tense are used to say what will not happen. They are formed by adding “not” after “will”:

Subject + will + not + base verb

Examples:

He will not participate in the contest.
We will not attend the meeting.

“Will not” can be contracted to “won’t”:

She won’t call you tonight.

Interrogative Sentences

Interrogative sentences in the simple future tense are used to ask questions. They follow this structure:

Will + subject + base verb?

Examples:

Will you join us for dinner?
Will they arrive on time?

Notice how “will” is placed at the beginning of the sentence.

Short Answers

Short answers in the simple future tense are brief responses to yes/no questions. They only use the subject and “will” or “won’t”:

Yes, subject + will.
No, subject + won’t.

Examples:

Will she come? Yes, she will.
Will they leave soon? No, they won’t.

These responses are concise and direct.

How to Use the Simple Future Tense

Learn how and when to use the future simple tense in English with helpful grammar rules, example sentences, videos and ESL worksheets.

The future simple tense is used:

For Actions Decided at the moment of Speech

Example:

I have a toothache. I‘ll take a medicine.

For Unplanned Future Actions

Example:

Winter will come soon.

For Offering, Asking for a Request Promising, Ordering, Threatening

Example:

I’m afraid we will get wet.

For Unpreventable Actions in Future

Example:

Summer will come soon.

With Conditional, Time and Purpose Clauses

Example:

When I arrive at home, I will call you.

For Thoughts, Predictions, Assumptions, Sureness, Fears about Future

Example:

I promise I won’t tell this anyone.

Simple Future Tense Exercises

Using the simple future tense involves understanding how it is formed and recognizing common mistakes. Practice makes perfect, so let’s explore specific exercises and look at frequent errors learners make.