Intermediate Grammar – How to Use “Shall”

“Shall” will be our topic today, so let’s check it out and see exactly how and when it is used.

*Remember that shall is normally quite formal and is found more commonly in British English , however it may be used by english speakers of any country.

Firstly, shall is used to talk about future actions. For example:

I shall be there at 8:00 am.

We shall be there in the morning very early if you would like to join us.

It may also be used for suggestions.

Shall we go have dinner somewhere after the film?

Shall I pick you up after work it’ll be much faster that way?

Shall can also be used for promises. 

I shall complete all my work before the end of the day I promise.

I shall take care of you. Don’t worry.

When we want to use the negative form of shall we may use shall not or the older form shan’t (which is more uncommon).

I shall not wait here any longer, I am tired.

Jack shan’t come to the wedding as he has come down with a cold.

So, there you have it. I hope this has helped you. Try to practice using the vocabulary as much as possible to improve that little bit more everyday. And in no time at all you “shall” be speaking English!