Language of the Day: Using the Present Continuous

The present continuous tense is one of the most useful pieces of grammar for English learners to get a handle on. Did you know that there are 4 separate ways to use the present continuous in a sentence? Let’s take a look at each situation and how you can learn to use this valuable structure!

USE 1: Happening right now

 

Use the present continuous to express the idea that something is happening now, at this very moment. It can also be used to show that something is not happening now.

Examples:

  • You are studying English now.

  • You are not scuba diving now.

  • Are you sitting down?

  • Yes, I am sitting.

  • I am not standing.

  • Is he sitting or standing?

  • They are reading their books.

  • They are not watching television.

  • What are you doing?

  • Why aren't you doing your homework?

USE 2: Longer Actions in Progress Now

 

Sometimes, we use the present continuous to say that we are in the process of doing something that takes a long time; however, we might not be doing it at this exact second.

Examples: (All of these sentences can be said while eating dinner in a restaurant.)

  • Kevin is studying to become a doctor.

  • I am reading a really interesting book right now.

  • I am not watching any new TV series yet.

  • Are you working on any special projects at work?

  • Aren't you taking night classes at the community centre these days?

USE 3: Near Future

 

Sometimes, speakers use the present continuous to indicate that something will or will not happen in the near future.

Examples:

  • I am meeting some friends for a drink after work tonight.

  • I am not going to that party on Saturday, are you?

  • Is he visiting his mom next month?

  • Isn't he moving in with his girlfriend soon?

USE 4: Repetition and Irritation with Always

 

The present continuous with words such as always or constantly tells us that something irritating often happens. Remember to put the words always or constantly between be and verb+ing.

Examples:

  • She is always running late.

  • He is constantly listening to loud music. I wish he would turn it down.

  • I don't like him much because he is always whining.

For more useful grammar explanations, check out englishpage.com

Zach J