Let's compare the different usage of the 'present simple' and 'present continuous' forms in English. The continuous form is sometimes called the progressive form.
We use 'present simple' forms to talk about:
- routines; every day/ every week activities
- actions/activities we do regularly
- facts and truths
- habits
- permanent situations
We use 'present continuous' forms to talk about:
- events/activities that are happening at the moment of speaking
- temporary situations
- future arrangements
Improve your listening by watching the video and look at some examples
Test yourself with the quiz
Are the sentences correct or incorrect?
- Beavers are living in Scotland.
Incorrect. Beavers live in Scotland.
- Jo is staying with me until she is better.
Correct.
- "Where's Alex?" "Oh, he flies to Rome right now!"
Incorrect. He is flying to Rome right now!
- I am working in a school. I started there 12 years ago.
Incorrect. I work in a school.
- I go for a walk most days.
Correct.
