Definition / Explanation
We use be going to for plans, intentions, and situations where we can already see evidence. It is common when the decision exists before the moment of speaking. For example, I'm going to study tonight means the plan is already in your mind. We also use it for predictions with visible signs, such as dark clouds in the sky. It is less about a sudden decision and more about something already prepared or expected.
Key Rules
- Form: am/is/are going to + base verb.
- Use it for plans: I am going to call her tonight.
- Use it for intentions: We are going to save money.
- Use it for clear evidence: Look at those clouds. It is going to rain.
- The main verb stays in the base form after going to.
Examples
- I am going to call you tonight.
- She is going to study medicine.
- We are going to visit my parents this weekend.
- It is going to rain soon.
- They are going to move to a new flat.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ I going to call you tonight. -> ✅ I am going to call you tonight.
- ❌ She is going to studies medicine. -> ✅ She is going to study medicine.
- ❌ It going to rain. -> ✅ It is going to rain.