One use for the modal auxiliary
will (and also for be going to)
is in showing someone's predictions about the future--things
that someone speaks or writes about before they actually
happen.
Another use for will (but not
be going to) is in showing
willingness or volition--being agreeable to the idea of doing
something. When will
is used in this way,
it can refer to either
present or future time.
Examples:
Will you help me?
(The time in the above request
may be now or future.
The speaker wants to know
if another person is willing
to help--that is,
if he or she accepts the request for help.)
_____________________________________
I know it's your turn to cook dinner
tonight, but I'll do it.
You look too tired.
(The time in the above sentence
is the near future. The speaker
is showing her/his
willingness to cook dinner.)
_____________________________________
No, I won't wait any longer. I have too many other things to
do.
(The time is now. The speaker
isn't willing to wait any longer.)
________________________________________________
Mom, Billy
won't let me play with his toys!.
(The time is now. The speaker
says that Billy isn't willing to
let him / her play
with his [Billy's] toys.)
________________________________________________
Special Note:
Remember that only will (or won't) can be used to show
willingness.
Be going to cannot be used to show this meaning.
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