“Be Supposed To” vs. “Will”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “be supposed to” and “will”

  • "Be supposed to" suggests an outside expectation or obligation, while "will" implies a personal intention or decision.
  • "Be supposed to" may convey a sense of uncertainty or lack of control, while "will" expresses confidence or certainty.
  • "Be supposed to" may have consequences for not fulfilling expectations, while "will" may not necessarily have consequences.
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What is the definition of “be supposed to” and “will”?

Be supposed to
  • This phrase is used to describe an expectation or obligation to do something.
  • It is often used to convey a sense of responsibility or duty.
  • The speaker may not necessarily have control over the situation.
Will
  • This is a simple future tense verb that expresses a future action, intention, or prediction.
  • It usually implies the speaker has control or agency over the situation.
  • It can also be used to express a strong determination or promise.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Will” is the more popular variant on the web.
Be supposed to
3,140,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. I am supposed to clean my room before I go out tonight.
  2. The train is supposed to arrive at 5:30 pm, but it's already 6 pm.
  3. You are supposed to wear a mask when entering the store.
More popular
Will
17,130,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. I will study French next semester to fulfill my language requirement.
  2. My friend will pick me up from the airport tomorrow afternoon.
  3. She will always remember her trip to Paris last summer.
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