The Unconscious Grammar Rules of Language: When to Use 'Will' vs 'Going to'

As a native English speaker, have you ever been formally taught the rules governing the use of 'will' vs 'going to'? I can confidently say that I did not, and I was taken aback to learn about such specific grammar rules from a 7th-grade EFL (English as a Foreign Language) test in Serbia.

Our grammar lessons at school typically revolve around basic topics such as nominative vs. objective case pronouns and commonly confused homonyms such as 'their, 'they're, 'there' and 'your, ' 'you're'. Additionally, we learn how to diagram and parse sentences, which introduces us to parts of speech and sentence structure. Most of these discussions happen in sixth and seventh grade, with a focus on spelling mastery up to sixth grade.

Grammar Rules in Native Languages

No, most people are not explicitly taught about these rules in their native language. English is not unique in this regard. While there are advantages to being taught formal grammar, native speakers rarely make mistakes with basic grammar rules because they are unconscious. For English Language Learners (ELLs), however, these rules can be quite challenging, especially if their native language has a more distinct future tense.

Similarly, many native English speakers, including myself, did not need to be taught how to use articles. The rules governing articles are complex, but we instinctively use them correctly. This is because we learn our first language as babies, and the rules become instinctive unless we need to teach the language to someone else who is unfamiliar with it.

Defining 'Will' and 'Going to'

There are several Auxiliary Verbs in Germanic-based languages, such as English, which can modify the basic meaning of a verb. Among these, 'may, ' 'can, ' 'should, ' 'would, ' and 'will' each convey different nuances:

May: It is possible to proceed, with no probable prevention. Can: Various factors point to proceeding. Should: You can and there is an onus to do so. Would: You should, but there is a factor to be considered. Will: A definite commitment to do so, without question.

Going is the verb of motion. When combined with 'will', it specifies the exact message:

Going to: You are proceeding to doing so in all possibility.

Implications for EFL Learners

Familiarity with these rules is particularly crucial for EFL learners. In Serbian, for instance, students know intricate details about their language, such as verb tenses, without realizing it. Similarly, when we say "It just sounds better this way," we are unconsciously adhering to a rule that we may not even be aware of.

The confusion around 'will' vs 'going to' can be especially challenging for EFL learners. Many of them have a more straightforward future tense, which can make the nuances of these verbs difficult to grasp. Understanding these rules can greatly improve their fluency and accuracy in using the language.

In conclusion, while we may not be explicitly taught these rules, they are an essential part of mastering English as a native or a second language. Awareness of when to use 'will' vs 'going to' can significantly enhance one's ability to communicate effectively in English.

Conclusion

This discussion highlights the importance of understanding the subtleties of grammar, particularly for English Language Learners. By recognizing these unconscious rules, learners can improve their language skills and communicate more effectively in English. So, next time you use 'will' or 'going to,' pause to consider the exact connotation you are trying to convey.