Present simple

We use the Present Simple for:

regular actions or events

• I watch TV most evenings.

facts

• The sun rises in the east.

facts known about the future

• The plane leaves at 5.00 in the morning.

thoughts and feelings about the time of speaking

• I don't understand.

We use the Present Continuous for

the time of speaking ('now')

• I'm watching a movie on TV.

things which are true at the moment but not always

• I'm looking for a new job.

present plans for the future

• I'm taking my husband to New York for his birthday.

Look at these sentences :

• I usually don't drink coffee but I'm having one this morning because there is nothing else.
• I often drive to work but I'm taking the train this morning because my car is in for repair.
• I'm thinking about dying my hair blonde but I don't think my wife will be very happy about it.
• My parents live in New York but I'm just visiting.

Notice how in all these examples we use the present continuous to talk about events which are temporary/limited in time and the present simple to talk about events which are habits/permanent.

exercise 1 | exercise 2 | exercise 3 | exercise 4
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