Dutch grammar: toekomende tijd (futurum)

What this grammar point covers

The 'toekomende tijd' (futurum) is how you talk about things that will happen in the future in Dutch.

When to use it

Use the 'toekomende tijd' when you want to say what will happen later, make promises, or talk about plans and predictions in Dutch.

Key forms

• gaan + infinitive (Ik ga werken)
• zullen + infinitive (Ik zal werken)

Examples

Tips

• Use 'gaan + infinitive' for plans or intentions.
• Use 'zullen + infinitive' for predictions or promises.
• Do not confuse 'gaan' (to go) with its use in the future tense.

Exceptions and edge cases

• The verb 'zullen' is irregular: 'ik zal', 'jij zult', 'hij zal', etc.
• Sometimes the present tense is used to talk about the near future, especially with a time word.