English Grammar

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We recommend that you read the grammar explanation on the first page of the lesson and then do the exercises, thinking all the time about the rules in the grammar explanation. 

 

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Pearson Brown

Present continuous

The present continuous is used to talk about present situations which we see as short-term or temporary. We use the present simple to talk about present situations which we see as long-term or permanent.

In these examples, the action is taking place at the time of speaking.

·         It's raining.

·         Who is Kate talking to on the phone?

·         Look, somebody is trying to steal that man's wallet.

·         I'm not looking. My eyes are closed tightly.

In these examples, the action is true at the present time but we don't think it will be true in the long term.

·         I'm looking for a new apartment.

·         He's thinking about leaving his job.

·         They're considering making an appeal against the judgment.

·         Are you getting enough sleep?

In these examples, the action is at a definite point in the future and it has already been arranged.

·         I'm meeting her at 6.30.

·         They aren't arriving until Tuesday.

·         We are having a special dinner at a top restaurant for all the senior managers.

·         Isn't he coming to the dinner?

Present simple

We use the present simple to talk about actions we see as long term or permanent. It is a very common and very important tense.

Here, we are talking about regular actions or events.

·         They drive to the office every day.

·         She doesn't come here very often.

·         The news usually starts at 6.00 every evening.

·         Do you usually have bacon and eggs for breakfast?

Here, we are talking about facts.

·         We have two children.

·         Water freezes at 0° C or 32° F.

·         What does this expression mean?

·         The Thames flows through London.

Here, we are talking about future facts, usually found in a timetable or a chart.

·         Christmas Day falls on a Monday this year.

·         The plane leaves at 5.00 tomorrow morning.

·         Ramadan doesn't start for another 3 weeks.

·         Does the class begin at 10 or 11 this week?

Here, we are talking about our thoughts and feelings at the time of speaking. Although these feelings can be short-term, we use the present simple and not the present continuous.

·         They don't ever agree with us.

·         I think you are right.

·         She doesn't want you to do it.

Do you understand what I am trying to say.