Will Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⭐️
Add to dictionary

will

[wɪl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to express future intent

Expressing the future tense, used to talk about a future event or action that is planned or expected to happen.

Synonyms

going to, shall.

Examples of usage

  • I will meet you at the park tomorrow.
  • She will call you as soon as she arrives.
  • We will start the project next week.
Context #2 | Verb

to express willingness or determination

Expressing willingness or determination to do something in the future.

Synonyms

going to, shall.

Examples of usage

  • She will help you with your homework.
  • He will do whatever it takes to succeed.
  • They will never give up on their dreams.
Context #3 | Noun

testament or legal document

A legal document in which a person states who should receive their property and possessions after they die.

Synonyms

bequest, testament.

Examples of usage

  • He left a will specifying how his assets should be distributed.
  • The lawyer is responsible for executing the will.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers debate the nature of 'will' in the context of free will, questioning whether our choices are truly ours.
  • In existentialism, the concept of will is often linked to personal responsibility and the creation of one's own destiny.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'I will' often appears in motivational speeches, inspiring people to make commitments to change.
  • Many songs and movies center around the theme of 'willpower', highlighting personal strength in overcoming obstacles.

Psychology

  • In psychology, the 'will' is related to motivation and goal pursuit, influencing how individuals achieve their desires.
  • Studies show that strengthened willpower can lead to better decision-making and self-control in daily life.

Grammar

  • 'Will' is a modal verb used to indicate future actions, often combined with the base form of another verb.
  • In English language learning, mastering the use of 'will' helps in forming sentences about future plans and predictions.

Origin of 'will'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'will' comes from Old English 'willan', which means 'to want' or 'to wish'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to express intention and desire more clearly.

The word 'will' has roots in Old English and originates from the Germanic word 'willio' or 'willian', meaning to wish or desire. Over time, its usage expanded to include expressing future intent and willingness. In legal contexts, 'will' refers to a testament or legal document outlining the distribution of one's assets after death. The word has evolved to encompass various meanings and is widely used in both spoken and written English.


See also: unwillingness, wilful, willful, willing, willingly, willow, willpower.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #19, this is one of the most fundamental words in English. It's absolutely essential to master this word as it forms the backbone of English communication and appears in almost every conversation or text.