Overview
Future in the past describes something that was expected, planned, or predicted from a past viewpoint. It is expressed with 'would' (he said he would call), 'was/were going to' (she was going to leave), or 'was/were about to' (the meeting was about to start). It is common in reported speech and narratives.
What Is It?
- definitionSomething that was future from a past point of view.
- wouldShe said she would call later. (future from past)
- was going toHe was going to resign, but changed his mind.
- was about toThe plane was about to land when the storm hit.
- was toThe meeting was to begin at 9am.
Three Main Structures
- wouldHe promised he would return.
- was/were going toThey were going to sell the house.
- was/were about toI was about to leave when she called.
- was/were toShe was to become the CEO.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ He said he will call → ✅ He said he would call.
- ❌ She is going to leave (when reporting past plan) → ✅ was going to.
- Used in reported speech, narrative, and unrealised past plans.
When to use
Narrative
Little did she know that this would change her life.
Reported Speech
He told me he would be late.
Unrealised Plans
She was going to quit, but got a promotion instead.
Imminent Past
The concert was about to start when the power went out.