In Grammar 2-1, you reviewed the four most commonly used future forms. In this lesson, you’ll be looking at some other ways of talking about the future.
Plan / intend
The verbs plan and intend are used in the present simple to express future intentions or desires—the meaning is similar to be going to but slightly less certain. When used in this way, these verbs are followed by infinitive verbs.
- I plan to read and take notes on chapter six during this study session.
- I plan to retire when I am 50 years old.
- Next week, I intend to use the time I have between classes better.
- I intend to finish all my courses and graduate at the end of this year.
Thinking of
Thinking of is used to express a future intention that is being considered. The use of thinking of tells us that the intention is just an idea and no decision has been made as to whether it will actually happen or not. Thinking of requires the auxiliary verb 'be' and is followed by a gerund.
- If you’re thinking of going to the gym on Tuesday, decide now and add it to your calendar.
- We're thinking of visiting our grandmother next year.
- James is thinking of taking a vacation soon.
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