PRESENT CONTINUOUS

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

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What is the Present Continuous?

The present continuous verb tense indicates that an action or condition is happening now, frequently, and may continue into the future.

The Present Continuous Formula

To form the present continuous, follow this formula: To Be [Am, Is, Are] + Verb with -ing

Example: Aunt Christine is warming up the car while Scott looks for his new leather coat. They are eating at Scott’s favorite restaurant today, Polly’s Pancake Diner.

Uses of the Present Continuous

1) First, we use the present continuous for things that are happening at the moment of speaking. These things usually last for quite a short time and they are not finished when we are talking about them. Time expressions: "Now, right now, at the moment." > I'm working at the moment. > Please call back as we are eating dinner now. > Julie is sleeping.

Uses of the Present Continuous

2) We can also use this tense for other kinds of temporary situations around the moment of speaking. Time expressions: "At present, presently, for the time being, currently, nowadays, this year, etc." > John's working in a bar until he finds a job in his field. (He might not be working now.) > I'm reading a really great book. > She's staying with her friend for a week.

Uses of the Present Continuous

3) When describing something that will take place in the future, the present continuous tense can be used when you are discussing something that is already discussed or planned ahead. Time expressions are obligatory here. Common expressions are: "Tomorrow, tonight, next week, next year" > When we arrive at the airport, we are taking a private car direct to the hotel. > She is speaking at the conference this evening.

Uses of the Present Continuous

4) When complaining about something that happens repeatedly, again and again, and annoys us. Time expressions are adverbs of frequency like "always", "continuously" and "constantly". > She is always coming to class late. > He's continuously changing his mind. > He is constantly talking. I wish he would shut up.

When Not to Use Present Continuous Tense

There are certain verbs that cannot be used in the present continuous tense. The following verbs are non-continuous: Communication: agree, promise, surprise Feelings: like, love, hate Senses: hear, see, smell, taste Thinking: believe, know, understand