Predictions

How Predictions Work

In language, we use different structures to make predictions, depending on how certain we are about the future. For strong certainty, we often use "will" or "going to." For less certainty, we might use modal verbs like "might," "could," or "may."

Examples of Making Predictions

• Certain Prediction: "It will rain tomorrow." (Based on strong evidence or belief)
• Likely Prediction: "She is going to win the race." (Based on current evidence or plans)
• Uncertain Prediction: "I might go to the party." (Shows possibility, not certainty)

Role in Communication

Sharing Expectations: Predictions help us express what we expect to happen. 📈 Expressing Concerns: We can use predictions to express worries about future events. 😟 Planning: Making predictions is crucial for making plans and preparing for the future. 📅 Encouraging or Warning: We use predictions to encourage people or warn them about potential outcomes. 🚀⚠️

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✅ Correct: "It will probably rain tomorrow." (Expressing a strong prediction with some uncertainty)

❌ Incorrect: "It will maybe rain tomorrow." (Mixing certainty with "maybe" is less common and can sound awkward)

✅ Correct: "They're going to start the project soon." (Using "going to" for planned actions)

❌ Incorrect: "They will to start the project soon." ("Will to" is not a correct structure)

✅ Correct: "You might want to bring an umbrella." (Expressing a possibility)

❌ Incorrect: "You will want to bring an umbrella." (Assuming certainty in a suggestion)