The moment

Aiko and Jake are classmates at a language school in Tokyo. Three short exchanges on a Thursday: a question after class, a change of plan, and a quick check the next morning. Each one uses the future: "going to" for plans, "-ing" for fixed arrangements. Listen first, then take one side.

The conversation

AikoJake
  1. Aiko
  2. Jake
  3. Aiko
  4. Jake
  5. Jake
  6. Aiko
  7. Jake
  8. Aiko
  9. Aiko
  10. Jake
  11. Aiko
  12. Jake

Words to know

stay at home for the evening

"I know already, and it stresses me out"

"tomorrow is a good time for me"

checks that a plan hasn't changed

a strong, happy "yes"

Check yourself

1Why does Jake say "Don't remind me"?
2Why does Jake's plan for tonight change?
3What does "Are we still on for tonight?" check?

Practice · 3 min

Round one: repeat every line. Round two: mute Aiko, and when Jake invites you, say no kindly and offer another day. Round three: mute Jake and make the invitation. Keep "going to" relaxed; at speed it often sounds like "gonna".

  1. AikoAny plans for tonight, Jake?
  2. JakeI'm going to stay in and study.
  3. AikoGood idea. The test is on Monday.
  4. JakeDon't remind me.
  5. JakeActually, a few of us are getting ramen. Want to come?
  6. AikoI'd love to, but I'm meeting my cousin.
  7. JakeNo problem. What about tomorrow night?
  8. AikoTomorrow works. What time?
  9. AikoMorning. Are we still on for tonight?
  10. JakeDefinitely. Seven, at the station?
  11. AikoPerfect. I'm going to bring my notes.
  12. JakeRamen and studying. Very responsible.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.