Modals for predictions & decisions (will, be going to, be about to)
| Modals | Will | Be going to | Be about to |
| Uses | Spontaneously making a decision at the time of speaking (positive/negative),Making a prediction that is 100% certain (positive/negative) | Expressing a decision that is made before speaking (a plan made in advance). Making a prediction that is 100% certain (positive/negative),Asking about the future | Expressing an action in the near future.Making a prediction that is 100% certain (positive)Saying something has no chance of happening (negative) |
| Formality | Formal | Neutral / Informal | Neutral |
| Examples | Making a decision at the time of speaking (positive): I will go to the bathroom before the next conference. (I am making the decision now) Making a decision at the time of speaking (Negative): We will not be at the meeting. (I am making the decision now) We won’t be at this meeting. (I am making the decision now) Making a prediction (positive): We will finish the project this week. Making a prediction (negative): We will not finish in time. We won’t finish in time. | Expressing a decision that is made before speaking: I am going to the concert tonight. (I made the decision in the past, now I have a plan.) Making a prediction that is 100% certain (positive): We are going to make more money next year. Making a prediction that is 100% certain (negative): We are not going to make more money next year. We aren’t going to make more money next year. Asking about the future: Are they going to sign the documents? | Expressing an action in the near future: I am about to send you an e-mail. Making a prediction that is 100% certain (positive): He is about to lose the sale. Saying something has no chance of happening (negative): I am not about to lose the sale because of him. |