When to use “I’m Going” vs. “I’m Coming” in English
- Thomas
- Mar 12
- 2 min read
Many English learners get confused about when to use “I’m going” and when to use “I’m coming.” While both phrases talk about moving from one place to another, the key difference is who you are talking to and where they are.
When to Use “I’m Going”
Use “I’m going” when you are talking about leaving your current place and traveling somewhere else. The person you are speaking to is not at the place you are going to.
Examples:
I’m going to the supermarket. (The listener is not at the supermarket.)
She’s going to the park after school. (She is not at the park yet.)
We’re going to Brazil next summer. (The listener is not in Brazil.)
When to Use “I’m Coming”
Use “I’m coming” when you are moving toward the person you are talking to or their location. The listener is already there or will be there when you arrive.
Examples:
(You are at home, and your friend is at the cafe.)
Friend: Are you coming to the cafe?
You: Yes, I’m coming now!
(Your mom calls you for dinner.)
Mom: Dinner is ready!
You: I’m coming!
(Your colleague is waiting in a meeting room.)
Colleague: The meeting is starting soon.
You: I’m coming in five minutes.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 I’m coming to the movies at 7 PM. (when the listener is not at the movies) (Incorrect)
✅ I’m going to the movies at 7 PM. (Correct)
🚫 I’m going home now! (when your mom is at home) (Incorrect)
✅ I’m coming home now! (Correct)
Practice Time!
Fill in the blanks with “going” or “coming.”
1️⃣ (Your friend is at a party now.) Hey, are you _______ to the party later?
2️⃣ (The listener is not at the doctor's office.) I’m _______ to the doctor’s office this afternoon.
3️⃣ (Your friend is waiting in the classroom.) I’m _______ now!
4️⃣ She’s _______ to visit her grandparents this weekend.
5️⃣ (Your friend calls from the cafe asking where you are.) I’m _______ soon!
Answers
Keep learning the nuances (small differences) in English and you'll be a pro in no time! Have a suggestion for the next article? Drop a comment below and let me know what you want to see me talk about or explain.
