The Present Continuous

I am (not) going

Be + gerund (v.ing)

How to Use the Present Continuous

We can use the present continuous to talk about the present and the future.

The Present Continuous – Present Meaning

1. Talk about actions happening right now.

For example: I’m watching TV at the moment.

2. Talk about actions happening around now.

For example: I’m reading the new ‘Harry Potter’.

3. Temporary Situations.

For example: I’m working in the Rome office this month.

Compare:

I usually work in London but I’m working in Rome this month.

Present simple (always) Present Continuous (temporary)

4. Repeated actions which are annoying.

For example: He’s always playing his music really loud. I hate it!

The Present Continuous – Future Meaning

We can use the present continuous to talk about future plans and arrangements.

A: What are you doing tomorrow? B: I’m playing tennis.