will climb vs. will be climbing

[CarloSsS]

In an exercise, I came upon this multiple choice question:
He has been preparing for months for his latest challenge. Next month he will climb/will be climbing La Esfinge mountain in Peru.

I think that that both answers are possible and natural. However, I prefer "will be climbing" over the other since there's an indication of a plan here, in which case "will be + ing" is IMO preferred. What's your view on this?

 

[Gillnetter]

In an exercise, I came upon this multiple choice question:
He has been preparing for months for his latest challenge. Next month he will climb/will be climbing La Esfinge mountain in Peru.
"He will climb" is a statement that he will accomplish the task.
"He will be climbing" is a statement that he will be engaged in the task of climbing.

I think that that both answers are possible and natural. However, I prefer "will be climbing" over the other since there's an indication of a plan here (Where is this indication?), in which case "will be + ing" is IMO (Please do not use "IMO". We attempt to only use standard English in this forum. Also, It reminds me of a brand of sour cream sold in the US) preferred. What's your view on this?

Gil

 

[CarloSsS]

As I see it, the indication of a plan is in the preceding sentence. It says that he's been preparing for months.

You're right; I shouldn't've used IMO. Nevertheless, in this case, Michael Swan's PEU agres with me, so it's not only my opinion, but a widely accepted concept (based on the fact that Swan's mentions it in his book).

In any case, which of the options is more natural? Are both acceptable?

 

[billmcd]

Gil

Excerpt; "I think that both answers are possible and natural. However, I prefer "will be climbing" over the other since there's an indication of a plan here (Where is this indication?)"

The "indication" is in the use of the future progressive, which can be used for a planned future action.

 

[Gillnetter]

Excerpt; "I think that both answers are possible and natural. However, I prefer "will be climbing" over the other since there's an indication of a plan here (Where is this indication?)"

The "indication" is in the use of the future progressive, which can be used for a planned future action.

Yes, that's what I was asking Carlos to explain.

 

[CarloSsS]

Which one is right then? "Will climb" or "will be climbing"? Or both of them?

 

[billmcd]

Which one is right then? "Will climb" or "will be climbing"? Or both of them?

Either could be used based upon the distictions you made previously.