Future Progressive

Definition

The future progressive is a verb tense used to describe actions that will be ongoing at a specific point in the future. It emphasizes the duration of an action that is expected to be in progress during a future time frame, often conveying a sense of anticipation or expectation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The future progressive is formed using 'will be' followed by the present participle (the -ing form) of the verb.
2. This tense is often used to indicate that an action will be happening at a specific moment in the future, such as 'I will be studying at 8 PM.'
3. Future progressive can also express planned events or actions that are expected to take place over a duration of time in the future.
4. It can imply an interruption or a situation occurring alongside another event, enhancing the descriptive quality of future plans.
5. Using this tense helps convey not just what will happen, but how it will unfold over time, giving more context to future scenarios.

Review Questions

• How does the future progressive differ from the simple future tense in terms of meaning and usage?
  • The future progressive emphasizes the ongoing nature of an action at a specific point in the future, while the simple future tense simply states that an action will occur without focusing on its duration. For example, 'I will study' suggests a one-time event, whereas 'I will be studying' highlights that studying will be happening at that moment. This distinction allows speakers to express not only future actions but also the timeline and context surrounding them.
• Discuss how the future progressive can be used to show planned events and how it enhances communication regarding expectations.
  • The future progressive helps convey planned events by indicating actions expected to occur over a period of time in the future. For instance, saying 'We will be traveling next week' suggests not only that travel is planned but also that it will occupy time and might overlap with other activities. This use provides clarity and context for listeners about what to expect, allowing for better understanding and coordination.
• Evaluate how using the future progressive contributes to narrative techniques in storytelling or reporting events.
  • Using the future progressive in storytelling or reporting allows authors and speakers to create vivid, dynamic scenes by emphasizing actions that will unfold over time. For example, saying 'They will be celebrating their anniversary all weekend' sets a scene rich with anticipation and ongoing activity. This technique adds depth and fluidity to narratives, engaging audiences by painting a clear picture of future events while maintaining suspense and expectation.

Related terms

Progressive Aspect: A grammatical aspect that expresses an ongoing action, typically formed with a form of 'to be' plus the present participle of the verb.

Simple Future: A verb tense that indicates an action will occur at a later time, typically formed using 'will' plus the base form of the verb.

Perfect Progressive Tense: A tense that combines aspects of the perfect and progressive, indicating an action that began in the past and continues into the present or future.