Simple Present for Future Events

Form

See Simple Present section.

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.

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!")