Page 225 - Practical English Usage 3ed - Michael Swan, Oxford
P. 225
future (8): will/shall, going to and present progressive (advanced points) 218
6
218 1
4
5
refusals: won't
Will not or won't is used to refuse, or to talk about refusals. I don't care what you say, I won't do it.
The car won't start.
asking for instructions and decisions: shall
Questions with shalll/we are used (in both British and American English) to ask for instructions or decisions, to offer services, and to make suggestions. Will is not used in this way.
Shalll open a window? (NOT Will .. 6pell tlltlilldtutl?) Shall 1 carry your bag?
What time shall we come and see you?
What on earth shall we do?
Shall we go out for a meal? Let's go and see Lucy, shall we?
giving instructions and orders: will
We can use Will you . .. ? to tell or ask people to do things. (In polite requests, Would you . .. ? is preferred - see 633.5.)
Will you get me a newspaper when you're out?
Will you be quiet, please! Make me a cup of coffee, will you?
For reponing of interpersonal shall in indirect speech, see 278.4.
future (8): will/shall, going to and present progressive (advanced points)
wilVshall and present forms: both possible
The differences between the structures used to talk about the future are not always very clear-cut. Will/shall and present forms (especially going to .. . ) are often both possible in the same situation, if 'present' ideas like intention or fixed arrangement are a part of the meaning, but not very important. The choice can depend on which aspect we wish to emphasise.
-
-
-
What will you do next year? (open question about the future; perhaps no clear plans have been made)
What are you doing next year? (emphasis on fixed arrangements) What are you going to do next year? (emphasis on intentions)
All the family will be there.
All the family are going to be there.
Ifyour mother comes, you'll have to help with the cooking.
Ifyour mother comes, you're going to have to help with the cooking. ~
page 193