Present Continuous & Present Simple – additional usage
PRESENT CONTINUOUS TENSE- ADDITIONAL USAGE
In addition to the usage rules mentioned above, we also use Present Continuous to express:
- activities taking place now, with the word “now” having a broader meaning:
We’re building a house in the countryside.
I can’t lend you this book – I’m reading it!
- longer activities, which are extended over time but are not permanent or repetitive; these are usually temporary situations.
I’m not feeling well today.
She‘s not having her classes this month. - change, progress, and development:
My English is getting much better.
Prices are rising again. - scheduled certain future activities, usually concerning the near future, i.e. scheduled meetings or visits.
I’m going to my doctor tomorrow at 8 a.m.
She‘s coming home tonight. - critical opinions or expressions of irritation, especially with the word always.
He‘s always making such a noise!
You‘re always making that mistake!
The verbs indicating emotions, feelings and sense impressions ( seeing, hearing) are usually not represented by Present Continuous. To express such states, we use Simple Present or can (not)+ verb.
I don’t understand what you’re talking about!
I can’t hear anything.
She loves you.
PRESENT SIMPLE TENSE – ADDITIONAL USAGE
In addition to the usage rules mentioned above, we also use Present Simple to express:
- general truths and principles:
London lies on the River Thames.
The Earth goes around the Sun.
- timetables and programmes:
The train leaves at 8.30.
When does the film start?
- emotions and feelings which, although they take place in a given moment, cannot be expressed with Present Continuous:
Do you understand? I hate him!
I don’t need those clothes.