will
Lesson 2 of 6 · ~7 minutes

Lesson 2 · will

I'll get it!

Deciding now

When a decision comes to you right now, while you're talking, you say it with will. A plan you thought about in advance is going to, not will.

Deciding right now

  • decision nowThe phone's ringing — I will get it! — the idea came while speaking
  • sentenceI’ll carry that bag for you — help is offered on the spot, with no preparation

Situation

The bag looks heavy.
We have no milk.
Someone knocks at the door.

Reaction

I’ll help you carry it.
I’ll go and buy some.
I’ll open it.
Situation
Reaction
The bag looks heavy.
I’ll help you carry it.
We have no milk.
I’ll go and buy some.
Someone knocks at the door.
I’ll open it.

The phone's ringing — I will get it!

It's cold in here. I will close the window.

We have no bread. I will go to the shop.

I don't have a pen. — I’ll give you mine.

Where people usually slip

If the plan was decided in advance — a ticket is bought, a date is set — it's going to: We are going to fly to Rome.

If the decision is made right now, in the conversation, it's will: Oh, I forgot my keys! I will go back for them.

In short

  • decision nowwill — the idea came while speaking
  • sentenceI'll help you — help offered on the spot
  • a ready planthat's going to, not will
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