Present Continuous Tense

The present continuous tense is a way to talk about things happening right now or things planned for the future. That’s how the Macmillan Dictionary describes it.

The present continuous tense shows actions happening right now. It’s like saying what’s going on at this moment. Some call it the present progressive tense because it talks about actions progressing in the present. Let’s see how different dictionaries explain this tense.

Definition of the Present Continuous Tense

The present continuous tense, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is the way we describe actions or events that are happening right now or are currently developing. Meanwhile, the Collins Dictionary defines it as a form of the verb that uses words like “is” or “are” with a verb ending in “-ing.” This form is used to show that something is happening at the moment, is ongoing, temporary, or even about the future.

Structure of the Present Continuous Tense

To learn the present continuous tense, you follow a simple formula:

Subject + am/is/are + verb+ing + the rest of the sentence

But there’s more to it! You should know how to structure sentences using this tense when they are positive, negative, in questions, and negative questions.

Take a look at the table below to understand how to build sentences in the present continuous tense more clearly.

Some Rules When Using the Present Continuous Tense

• When you’re using the present continuous tense, follow this structure:
• Start with the subject for positive or negative sentences, and with the helping verb for questions.
• A sentence in this tense has a helping verb (‘am’ for ‘I’, ‘is’ for singular, ‘are’ for plural) and a main verb.
• Remember, ‘am’ doesn’t go with negative questions. Instead of ‘amn’t,’ use ‘aren’t.’

For example:
Am n’t I reading a newspaper? Nope.
Aren’t I reading a newspaper? Yes.

Oh, and avoid using the present continuous with stative verbs.

How to Use Present Continuous Tense?

Similar to the Simple Present Tense, the present continuous tense is used to discuss actions happening right now. The key difference is that it shows an action ongoing or progressing at this very moment.

Here are some points that explain when we use the present continuous tense in more detail.

This is used to show something happening right now.

For example:

• My son is doing his science project.
• Santana is singing ‘Don’t Rain on my Parade.’
• It’s also used for something happening in the future.

For example:

• What will you do tomorrow?
• Rachel is moving to Paris next month.
• And it shows an ongoing action at the moment of speaking.

For example:

• Is she still working at the National Institute of Medical Sciences?
• I’m learning guitar now to play at your wedding.

Examples of Present Continuous Tense

Reviewing numerous examples can truly elevate your expertise in a specific subject or topic. Let’s delve into it! Here, you’ll find sentences exemplifying the present continuous tense.