How to use the Present Simple for the future
To learn the English language well we have to see that there is not only one Future tense.
There are a number of different ways to talk about future actions or events.
The Simple Present tense is sometimes used in other ways, not just for general routines, habits etc:
Present Simple for the future
– With a future time expression, to show an action that was previously planned or has a regular timetable (work, classes, trains etc)
The first train leaves at 06.03
1. Talking about planned actions or events.
The Simple present tense can be used to talk about future arrangements if a future time expression is also used, or it is understood from the context. (If there is no future time expression, people will usually understand the “habit” meaning.)
Compare:
Sandra starts work at 8:00. We understand that this is normal for Sandra
John starts work at 10:00 on Friday. We understand that this is a special situation for this Friday
Examples:
– Quickly please children! Class starts in five minutes. (the class is programmed to start)
– The plane leaves at 8:43 on Friday (it has a fixed timetable)
– I get up at six o’clock next Tuesday, I have to be in London at 8:00
– My mother leaves at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon. (her journey is already planned)
– Mary and Helen can’t go with me next Wednesday.
They have training then.
For other uses of the Present Simple
Present Simple verb form and introduction
To learn English grammar well you need to look, read and listen to as much standard English as possible.
In this way you will get a good model of the English language and understand how we use English grammatical forms in the most natural way possible.
Basics of good language learning ….
See more English grammar lessons >>>>
It’s as if the Future is already here! Thanks for your good work.