The Future Continuous describes an action that will be in progress at a specific moment in the future. It is also a polite way to ask about someone's plans.
How to form the Future Continuous
| Type | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Affirmative | subject + will be + verb-ing | I will be working. · They will be travelling. |
| Negative | subject + will not be + verb-ing | She won't be sleeping. |
| Question | Will + subject + be + verb-ing? | Will you be using the car? |
When to use the Future Continuous
- An action in progress at a future time: This time tomorrow I will be flying to Madrid.
- A polite question about plans: Will you be using the printer this afternoon?
- Something that will happen in the normal course of events: He will be arriving at six.
Signal words
These words often show that the Future Continuous is needed: at this time tomorrow, at 8 o'clock tonight, next week, this time next year, all day tomorrow.
Examples
- At nine tomorrow I will be sitting in a meeting.
- She will be sleeping when you arrive.
- Will you be working late tonight?
- They won't be coming to the party.
- Next summer we will be sailing in Greece.
- I'll be waiting outside.
Common mistakes
- Using it with stative verbs: I will be knowing → I will know.
- Confusing it with the Future Simple: I will work at 5 pm tomorrow is fine, but I will be working at 5 pm tomorrow stresses the action in progress.
Frequently asked questions
Future Continuous or Future Simple?
Use the Future Continuous for an action in progress at a time (I'll be driving at noon). Use the Future Simple for decisions, promises and predictions (I'll drive you).