We use “be going to” + base verb to talk about the future, especially when we have a plan, decision, or something we expect to happen. The verb “be” must match the subject.
Form:
I am going to eat lunch.
You/We/They are going to eat lunch.
He/She/It is going to eat lunch.
Examples:
I am going to visit my grandmother tomorrow.
They are going to watch a movie tonight.
She is going to buy a new phone next week.
We are going to clean the house after lunch.
Remember: Do not use “will going to.” Say either “will” or “be going to,” but not both.
🗣️ Why This Grammar Matters for Listening and Speaking
The phrase “be going to” is very common in everyday conversations about plans, hopes, or things that will happen soon. You’ll hear and use it in all kinds of real-life situations:
Making or sharing plans:
“I’m going to meet my friend at 3.”
“We’re going to have dinner outside.”
Asking about someone’s future:
“Are you going to study tonight?”
“What are you going to do this weekend?”
🎧 Listening Tip: In fast speech, people often say “gonna”:
“I’m gonna go now.” → means “I am going to go now.”
✔️ Understanding and using this grammar helps you:
Talk naturally about future plans
Understand fast, everyday speech like “gonna go” or “gonna eat”
Answer questions like “What are you going to do?” without confusion
This grammar helps you understand and talk about plans clearly. For example, if someone says, “We’re gonna leave in five minutes,” you’ll know they mean it’s happening soon, not now or later. And when you say things like “I’m going to call you later,” people understand you already decided. Without this grammar, you might sound unsure or use the wrong tense. So, learning ‘be going to’ helps you share your plans clearly and understand what others are about to do, especially when they speak fast.
Let’s Practice
Grammar Game
Now, let’s practice your grammar skills with a game.
🎧🗣️ Listening & Speaking Practice Questions
Talk About the Future We use “be going to” to talk about plans or things that will happen soon. These questions help you practice speaking about your life, your family, and your ideas for the future. Use “I am going to…”, “He is going to…”, or “We are going to…” in your answers. Listen to your classmates and try to ask follow-up questions.
Talk About Your Plans: What are you going to do after class today? ➤ For example: “I am going to eat lunch. I am going to do my homework.”
Weekend Plans: What are you and your friends going to do this weekend? ➤ For example: “We are going to watch a movie. We are going to go shopping.”
Ask About Others: Choose one person you know. What is he or she going to do tomorrow? ➤ For example: “She is going to visit her grandmother. He is going to play soccer.”
Family or Group Plans: What is your family going to do together this week? ➤ For example: “We are going to cook dinner together. We are going to clean the house.”
Dream Plans: If you have time and money, what are you going to do? ➤ For example: “I am going to travel to Japan. I am going to learn how to surf.”
School or Work Tasks: What are you going to do for school or work this week? ➤ For example: “I am going to write a report. I am going to study for a test.”
Fun and Relaxation: What are you going to do to relax or have fun soon? ➤ For example: “I am going to read a book. I am going to listen to music.”