Difference between Simple present tense and present continuous tense
We have already known that simple present tense is used for general truths, habits, present action and events whereas present continuous tense is used for progressive actions. To understand the two tenses we should read the differences of them. With that we will get clarifications about using the two tenses at different places and occasions.
Time expressing adverbs are used with both of the tenses for mentioning the time limit of definite time for conducting an action. We have provided time adverbs that are used for each tense separately.
Simple present tense: always, never, rarely, sometimes, usually etc. for the present moment.
Every week, moth, year, day, Sunday, Monday etc. are used for definite days or times.
Once, twice, thrice a week etc. for the number of specific times an action happened.
Present continuous tense: now, right now, today, at the moment, this week, this month, this year etc. are used for mentioning the exact time when an action is continuing with the time being.
The differences are given below with examples:
i) Simple present tense is used for saying about general truths, habits but present continuous tense expresses the actions which are happening continuously at present.
Ex.
You need chess board to play chess. (simple present)
She is reading a book now. (present continuous tense)
ii) With simple present tense we refer the present habits but present continuous tense is used for explaining different habits.
Ex.
Manisha goes to swimming club on every Sunday. (simple present)
He is always singing in the bathroom. (present continuous)
iii) Simple present tense expresses events with time charts but present continuous tense can explain events which have some future arrangements.
Ex.
The train comes to Howrah at 7:30 a.m. (simple present)
He is leaving the country on 4 October. (present continuous)
iv) Simple present tense refers permanent actions but present continuous tense mentions any temporary actions.
Ex.
She lives in Bangalore. (simple present)
He is living in Pune now. (present continuous)
v) Simple present tense refers quick actions, on the contrast present continuous tense expresses some slow actions.
Ex.
He rings the bell. (simple present)
He is ringing the bell. (present continuous)
vi) With simple present tense we can explain some regular actions and present continuous tense explains the actions which require much time.
Ex.
Rita always does her lessons. (simple present)
Joy is always doing his homework. (present continuous)
FAQs:
- What is the main difference between simple present tense and present continuous tense?
Answer. Simple present tense refers general truths and habits whereas present continuous tense mentions the actions which are occurring at present moment for certain time.
- How can we identify the two tenses separately?
Answer. In simple present tense we will find only the present verb forms added with s/es and we will see be verb+ main verb-ing in present continuous tense.
For more updates follow our net explanations homepage