Be going to: Plans and predictions
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Be Going To – Grammar Guide
Be Going To Form
Be going to consists of the present form of be (am, is, are) + going to + the base form of the main verb.
- I ’m going to visit my grandma.
- She isn’t going to come to the party.
- Are you going to study tonight?
When the Main Verb is “Go”
When the main verb is go, you can often omit “to go” — it’s implied.
- I’m going shopping this afternoon. (= I’m going to go shopping)
- We’re going to Cyprus next summer. (= We’re going to go to Cyprus)
Use: Predictions
We use be going to to predict something based on current evidence or signs.
- Look at those clouds — it’s going to rain.
- The car’s making a strange noise — we’re going to break down.
- The doctor said she’s going to have a boy.
Use: Intentions or Plans
We use be going to for decisions or plans made before speaking.
- “Why are you wearing that coat?” — “Because I’m going to walk to work.”
- We’re going to watch a movie tonight.
- He’s going to apply for a new job next week.
Future Time Expressions
Be going to is often used with future time expressions.
- I’m going to call you tomorrow.
- They’re going to move house next month.
- She’s going to start university in September.