Right now: the present continuous

Say what is happening now, and choose between the two presents. Lesson 9 of 58: Everyday English, CEFR A2.

Am / is / are + -ing

• Use the present continuous for what is happening now or around now: “I’m working from home this week.” “She’s talking to a client.”
• I’m on my way. (A fixed phrase: I am coming now)
• He’s working on the report.
• What are you doing?

Two presents

• Present simple: always, usually, habits. Present continuous: now, this week, temporary. “I usually drive, but I’m taking the train this week.”
• Some verbs describe states, not actions, and stay simple: know, like, want, need, believe, understand, belong. Say “I know”, never “I’m knowing.”
• I usually drive, but I’m taking the train this week. (Habit and temporary)
• I understand. (Not “I’m understanding”)
• She wants a coffee. (Not “she’s wanting”)

Lines to have ready

• I’m on my way. (You are coming)
• I’m just looking, thanks. (In a shop, when an assistant offers help)
• What are you working on at the moment? (Asking about somebody’s work)
• Sorry, I’m in a meeting. Can I call you back? (Answering a call at a bad time)
• How’s it going? (Casual hello)

Your turn to speak

• Imagine you are on a video call. Describe what you can see around you right now, what people near you are doing, and what you are working on these days.
• I used am / is / are + -ing for now
• I used the present simple for a habit
• I did not use -ing with know, like, want or need

Related

• Lesson 8: Yesterday: the past simple
• Lesson 10: Plans and predictions
• The whole English course

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