Use of Present Continuous Tense
Present Continuous Tense is used to express such actions that are going on at the time of speaking. Following are some actions that must be explained in the Present Continuous Tense:
Usage of Present Continuous Tense to show Progressing Actions
Present Continuous Tense is used to indicate an action that is going on at the time of speaking. It means that progressing actions of the present period must be explained in the Present Continuous Tense. For example:
- She is singing.
- The boys are playing hockey.
- Is she making a sponge cake right now?
- The police are not catching the thief.
- We are not playing badminton right now.
- The laborer is pushing the cart.
- He is running on the jogging track.
Usage of Present Continuous Tense to show Progressing Temporary Actions
Present Continuous Tense is also used to denote a temporary action that may not be going on at the time of speaking, but is in progress and may be completed in the future. For example:
- I am reading “David Copperfield”.
- They are staying with their friends for a few days.
- I am studying to become an engineer.
- I am not studying to become a web developer.
Usage of Present Continuous Tense to show the Actions of the Near Future
Present Continuous Tense is used to represent an action that is already planned to take place shortly in the future. It means that actions have been planned in present, but take place in the future. For example:
- I am going to the cinema tonight.
- My uncle is arriving tomorrow.
- They are not working, so they can play tennis with you tomorrow.
- Why are you not investing in your new business?
- When is she starting her new job?
- They are taking dinner at that hotel tonight as they already booked the table.
- I am taking my Spanish class on Wednesday.
Usage of Present Continuous Tense to show Obstinate Habit
Present Continuous Tense is also used to express an obstinate habit that would be persistent, despite some advice or warning. To show such obstinate habits, generally adverb “always” is used with the Present Continuous Tense. For example:
- My dog is very silly; he is always running out into the road.
- He is forever losing his keys!
- They are constantly missing the train.
- Harry is always smiling.
