B1 · Lesson 6 · 20 min
Future time clauses
In this lesson
- I can use present forms in future time clauses.
- I can talk about what will happen before, when, until and as soon as something happens.
Grammar in context
Maya is moving into a new flat on Saturday. She will collect the keys when the agent opens the office. As soon as she gets the keys, she will call her brother. They will not move the boxes until the rain stops.
Which verbs refer to the future but are in the present form?
Future meaning, present form
After when, as soon as, until and before, use a present form to talk about a future time. Put will in the other part of the sentence, not usually in the time clause. The time clause can come first or second.
- I will message you when I arrive at the station.
- When the lesson ends, we will go for coffee.
Using until and before
Use until to show that an action continues or does not happen up to a future point. Use before to say that one future action happens earlier than another. In both time clauses, use the present simple, even when you mean the future.
- Leo will stay here until his train leaves.
- Please lock the door before you go out.
Negatives, questions and present perfect
A negative time clause can use do not or does not when its meaning is clear. However, for a delayed action, say until the shop opens rather than until the shop does not open. In questions, keep the present form after the time word. We can use the present perfect to stress completion, especially after when or as soon as.
- What will you do when you finish work?
- As soon as I have sent the form, I will let you know.
Common mistakes
Compare the incorrect and corrected forms.
Avoid
I will call you when I will get home.
Use
I will call you when I get home.
Use the present simple after when for future time.
Avoid
We will start until Sam arrives.
Use
We will not start until Sam arrives.
Until normally follows a negative here: the start waits for Sam.
Put it into practice
Try the exercises, write your own examples and check your understanding.