Use going to for a prediction based on evidence you can see now, as in look at the sky, it’s going to rain, and will for a prediction based on opinion or general belief, as in I think it will rain later. The difference is whether the prediction is grounded in present evidence or a personal judgment.
Grammar Rule
Going to predicts from present evidence; will predicts from opinion or general belief.
Going to vs Will (Predictions): Rules and Examples
| Form | Based on | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Going to | present evidence | Look at the sky, it’s going to rain. He’s going to fall, he’s not looking. |
| Will | opinion / general belief | I think it will rain later. She’ll probably be late, she always is. |
Remember: going to = you can see the evidence now; will = it’s just your opinion.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below choosing correctly between going to and will for predictions. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
«Be going to» vs. «Will» for Predictions
Click «Start the test» to begin right away — no signup required. You can get a personalized certificate with your name and score at the end, if you want one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between going to and will for predictions?
Going to is used when there is present evidence for the prediction, as in look at the sky, it’s going to rain, while will is used for opinions or general beliefs, as in I think it will rain later.
Which form do you use when you can see clear evidence?
Use going to, as in he’s going to fall, he’s not looking, since the evidence is visible right now.
Which form do you use for a personal opinion about the future?
Use will, as in she’ll probably be late, she always is, since it is based on general belief rather than visible evidence.
Can both forms be correct in the same situation?
Sometimes, but the choice depends on whether you are reacting to something you see now or simply stating what you believe will happen.