Unit 22. Will/Shall (2)

We do not use will to say what somebody has already arranged or decided to do in the future.

• Ann is working next week. (not 'Ann will work')

But often, when we talk about the future, we are not taking about what somebody has decided to do.

• Jill has been away a long time. When she returns, she'll find a lot of changes.
• That plate is very hot. If you touch it, you'll burn yourself.

We often use will with

probably - I'll probably be home late this evening.
I expect - I haven't seen Carol today. I expect she'll phone this evening.
(I'm) sure - Don't worry about the exam. I'm sure you'll pass.
(I) think - Do you think Sarah will like the present we bought her?
(I) don't think - I don't think the exam will be very difficult.
I wonder - I wonder what will happen.

Generally we use will to talk about the future, but sometimes we use will to talk about now.

• Don't phone Ann now. She'll be busy. ( = I know she'll be busy now )