Future of probability
Distinguish an inference about now or the past from a prediction about later.
Simple future for a probable present
Italian can use the simple future to make a tentative inference about the present. Context shows whether a future form means “later” or “probably now.” An inference is not a verified fact. In the Valverde case, do not turn an absent document or a silent phone into evidence about why it is absent.
- Paola non risponde: sarà in riunione.· Paola is not answering; she is probably in a meeting.
- La scheda non è nel fascicolo: sarà ancora in revisione.· The technical sheet is not in the folder; it is probably still under review.
- Lo schermo del computer è spento: ci sarà un problema di alimentazione.· The computer screen is off; there is probably a power problem.
- Nel 2040 i mezzi pubblici saranno forse diversi.· In 2040 public transport may be different.
Future perfect for a probable past
Use the future perfect when you infer that an earlier event probably happened. The same form can also place a completion before a future date. Time words and situation make the reading clear. Keep a separate line between an observed fact, a possible explanation, and a planned test.
- Il tecnico non ha inviato la tabella: avrà avuto un imprevisto.· The technician did not send the table; perhaps an unexpected problem occurred.
- Mancano i dati di martedì: avranno dimenticato di caricarli.· Tuesday’s data are missing; they may have forgotten to upload them.
- Entro venerdì il gruppo avrà controllato i registri.· By Friday the group will have checked the records.
- Non sappiamo perché manca il file: dobbiamo chiedere, non indovinare.· We do not know why the file is missing: we must ask, not guess.