The Future Tense with "zullen"
While gaan is used for concrete plans and intentions, the auxiliary verb zullen (will / shall) is used to make promises, predictions, and formal proposals about the future.
| Subject | Verb |
|---|---|
| ik | zal |
| jij / u | zult / zal |
| hij / zij / het | zal |
| wij / jullie / zij | zullen |
Word Order and Promises
Just like with other auxiliary verbs, the conjugated form of zullen takes the second position in a standard sentence. The main action (the infinitive) gets pushed to the very end of the clause. This structure is frequently used to make promises.
| I will support you tomorrow. | Ik zal je morgen steunen. |
| I will clean the building, I promise. | Ik zal het gebouw schoonmaken, ik beloof het. |
Making Predictions
When making predictions about what will happen, you will often combine zullen with adverbs like waarschijnlijk (probably) or zeker (certainly). These adverbs sit in the middle of the sentence, while the infinitive remains at the end.
| You will probably arrive late. | Jullie zullen waarschijnlijk laat aankomen. |
| We will certainly visit the beautiful museum. | We zullen het mooie museum zeker bezoeken. |
Adding More Details
As you add more context to your sentences—such as time, location, direct objects, or negation (like niet)—the infinitive always anchors the end of the clause. All other details are placed between the conjugated verb and the infinitive.
| We will win the match at home tonight. | We zullen vanavond thuis de wedstrijd winnen. |
| I will not lose my key. | Ik zal mijn sleutel niet verliezen. |