differences - When do I use Present Continuous for near future instead of "be going to"?


I am reading this lesson about present continuous. As the writer states



USE 3 Near Future
Sometimes, speakers use the Present Continuous to indicate that something will or will not happen in the near future.



Examples:




  1. I am meeting some friends after work.




  2. I am not going to the party tonight.




  3. Is he visiting his parents next weekend?




  4. Isn't he coming with us tonight? "




The lesson says: Sometimes, speakers use the Present Continuous...


My question is when are these "sometimes"?




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