Simple present for future events

Simple Present for future events

SIMPLE PRESENT FOR FUTURE EVENTS

Simple Present for Future Events: Form

Simple Present for Future Events: Function

The simple present is used to make statements about events at a time later than now, when the statements are based on present facts, and when these facts are something fixed like a time-table, schedule, calendar.

Examples

  • The plane arrives at 18.00 tomorrow.
  • She has a yoga class tomorrow morning.
  • The restaurant opens at 19.30 tonight.
  • Next Thursday at 14.00 there is an English exam.

Simple present for future events 1

Note the difference between:

  • The plane leaves in ten minutes (= statement of fact)
  • The plane’s going to leave in ten minutes (= prediction based on present situation, meaning “…and if you don’t hurry up you’re going to miss it!”)