Planned and near futures
be to, be about to, on the verge of, would for the future in the past.
The rules
- "be to" + verb is used for official plans, often in the news.
- "be about to" = very soon, in a moment.
- "on the verge of" + noun or -ing = very close to.
- Future in the past: "will" becomes "would" after a past verb.
- "was going to" describes a plan that did not happen.
- "be not to" is a firm instruction or prohibition.
Examples
- The President is to visit Japan next month.
- Hurry up, the film is about to start.
- The company is on the verge of bankruptcy.
- I knew she would say yes.
- I was going to call you, but I forgot.
- You must not leave this room.
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1.The President _____ visit Japan next month.
2.Hurry up, the film is _____ start.
3.The company is on the verge _____ bankruptcy.
4.I knew she _____ say yes.
5.Which sentence is correct?