We use a number of expressions with main verbbewhen we refer to the future, especially the immediate future.
Be about to
We usebe about to+ base form of the verb to refer to things that we expect to happen very soon. We often use it withjust, for emphasis:
The ferry isabout toleave.
The driver isabout tocollect them. Shall I phone to stop him?
We’rejustabout toset off for a walk. Do you want to come?
With time expressions, we don’t usebe about to, we use the present simple:
Hurry up, please! The coachis about toleave!
Hurry up, please! The coachleavesin five minutes!
Not:The coach is about to leave in five minutes!
Be on the point of
We can also usebe on the point of+-ingform to refer to things that we expect to happen very soon.Be on the point ofis similar tobe just about to:
Iwas on the point ofleavingmy job but then I got promoted so I changed my mind.
Be due to
We usebe due to+ base form of the verb to talk about things that are scheduled:
The visitorsare due toarrive at the factory at 10:30.
Be to
Be to+ base form of the verb has a number of meanings. It is rather formal.
Obligations
Be torefers to what someone is obliged or required to do. We also use it to refer to formal decisions:
[referring to an obligation]
If Iam not totell anyone, then that’s simply not fair.
[making decisions at a business meeting]
So, Georgeis tocontact the Stockholm office, and Patriciais tospeak to the Elsico representative. Agreed?
Commands and instructions
We can also usebe towhen we give someone commands or instructions:
Youare toreport to the head office by 8.30 am.
She’s not tobe late. OK?
See also:
Commands and instructions
Headlines
Be tois common in newspaper headlines to refer to events which have been fixed or decided. We don’t always use the verb:
Prime Ministertoannounce emergency plan on climate change.(a headline – used without a verb) (Full form:The Prime Ministeris toannounce an emergency plan on climate change.)
See also:
Beexpressions (be able to,be due to)