Present Continuous tense is often called the present progressive tense.
We use the present continuous tense to talk about actions happening now or around now. They are usually temporary actions.
- I’m washing the dishes.
- Johnny is working at the moment.
- Yuk! That dog is eating mud.
Temporary Actions
We can also use the present continuous to talk about temporary actions. You don’t have to be doing the actions at the moment of speaking.
- I’m reading an interesting book at the moment.
- Johnny is working on a new project at the moment.
- We’re renovating our house.
- The film is showing in the city cinemas.
Talking about the future
It is possible to talk about the future using the present continuous tense. It’s usually to talk about personal arrangements when the plans have already been made.
- What are you doing tomorrow?
- What are you having for lunch?
- I’m going to the cinema this afternoon.
- I’m getting my hair cut next week.
Repeated Actions
Present continuous can be used to talk about repeated actions when they are happening at the time of speaking.
- He’s hammering a nail into the wooden box.
- Who’s screaming so loudly?
- Why is he hitting the ball into the wall?
Something About to Start
We often use the present continuous with verbs of movement to talk about something that is about to start.
- We’re all going to the pub. Would you like to come?
- I’m returning this library book right now.
- I’m just going to the shops. See you when I get back.
In English, we also use the present continuous to highlight a habit that somebody has. Often it is an annoying habit, but sometimes it’s a nice habit.
- He’s always picking his teeth!
- She’s constantly bringing food to work for everybody to eat.
Trigger Words
Some words in a sentence tell us that we are reading the present continuous tense. If you use these words, you know you need to use them with the present continuous tense.
Common trigger words are: now, this week, for the time being, look! and listen!
- Listen, the dog is barking!
- I’m working at the moment.
- Look, the bus is coming early.
- We’re going home now.
- I’m travelling this week.
If you want to know trigger words for present simple tense, take a look here.
If you would like to know how to make the present continuous tense, please click here.
- Keen to practise using the present continuous tense? Click below
