Is the word this present tense

The Key to the Present Tenses: Adverbs of Time

The use of the present tenses is described in this material. Expressions in the groups «Adverbs of time» below include adverbs, adverbial phrases, prepositions and conjunctions that are often used with these tenses. General information on English tenses and their adverbs of time is provided in Key to English Tenses. A list of tense forms for memorization is provided in Formulas of Tenses in the section Grammar.

SIMPLE PRESENT

Form: Base form of the verb: I/we/you/they do. Base form of the verb + s/es: he/she/it does. The verb BE: I am; he/she/it is; we/you/they are.

Meaning 1: Habitual, regular action in the present.

Adverbs of frequency: usually; regularly; every day; every week; every year; often; frequently; sometimes; occasionally; seldom; rarely; never (i.e., zero regularity); always (i.e., regularly, usually); on Fridays; on weekends.

I usually work till eight.

He writes two letters every day.

We always go to this store.

He plays tennis on Saturdays.

It often rains in my hometown.

They seldom go to the movies.

Meaning 2: Stating a fact, general truth, profession, state or condition.

Adverbs of time: Usually without adverbs of time.

The sun rises in the east.

Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.

What does she do? – She works as a teacher.

He lives in Moscow and works at a hospital.

She plays the piano well.

She likes oranges and bananas.

Their house is very small.

Note: The rules of adding the ending s/es to form the third person singular in the simple present tense are described in Adding the Ending s/es to Nouns and Verbs in the section Writing.

Note: Actions according to schedule

The simple present is used instead of the simple future for future actions according to schedule / timetable (for example, about public transportation, movies, stores, banks).

The show starts in two hours.

The train arrives at six tomorrow.

The department store opens at 9:00 a.m.

I work next Saturday.

Note: Clauses of time and condition

The simple present is used instead of the simple future in subordinate clauses of time and condition because the future tense is not allowed in these clauses. (See Word Order in Complex Sentences in the section Grammar.)

He will go there when he finishes his work.

If I find this book, I will give it to you.

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

Form: BE + present participle (I am doing; he/she/it is doing; we/you/they are doing).

Meaning 1: The action is going on at the present moment, at the moment of speaking.

Adverbs of time: now; right now; at the moment.

You are reading this material now.

I’m drinking coffee at the moment.

Usually, he sits by the window, but now he is sitting near the front door.

Look! An eagle is flying.

Listen! Music is playing.

Meaning 2: The action is going on at the present time but not necessarily at the moment of speaking.

Adverbs of time: now; at present; at the present time; at the moment; this year.

He is writing a new novel now.

He is teaching at Redwood this year.

What is she doing these days? – She is working for a newspaper.

I am studying economics at a business school.

They are building their own house.

Prices are rising again.

Her health is getting better.

Note: The rules of adding «ing» to verbs are described in Adding the Endings ed, ing to Verbs in the section Writing.

Note: Stative verbs

Verbs expressing mental or emotional state, mental or sense perception, possession, and other types of state or condition are generally not used in the continuous tenses. Such verbs are called stative verbs or nonprogressive verbs because they do not express any action or process of action (as opposed to action verbs).

Stative verbs: understand, know, remember, forget, doubt, believe, suppose, think (in the meaning «assume, suppose»), mean, recognize, realize, like, love, hate, want, need, prefer, smell (in the meaning «to give off a particular scent»), taste (i.e., to have a particular flavor), hear, see, feel, appear, seem, look (in the meaning «appear, seem»), be, belong, own, possess, have (in the meaning «possess»), cost, owe, include, contain, weigh, and some others.

The simple present is used instead of the present continuous with stative verbs.

I see a large dog in the yard.

I understand what you mean.

She prefers bright colors.

He wants to buy a new car.

This flower smells terrible.

This car costs a lot.

The house belongs to his mother.

Some stative verbs, for example, «look, think, see, feel, appear, smell, taste, have, weigh», are also used as action verbs, which means that as action verbs they can be used in the continuous tenses, with a difference in meaning. Compare these sentences:

She looks good now. (stative verb)

She is looking at him now. (action verb)

I think he is a good writer. (stative verb)

Quiet! I’m thinking. (action verb)

The soup tastes good. (stative verb)

She is tasting the soup now. (action verb)

This box weighs three kilograms. (stative verb)

He is weighing the apples. (action verb)

He has a nice house near a large park. (stative verb)

We are having dinner now. (action verb)

Note: Preplanned actions

The present continuous is used instead of the simple future for future actions according to people’s plans, i.e., preplanned or prearranged future actions. The phrase «be going to» is widely used in speech and writing to show a preplanned future action.

She’s leaving on Tuesday.

She’s going to leave on Tuesday.

I’m having dinner with Tom tomorrow.

I’m going to have dinner with Tom tomorrow.

He is going to a concert this evening.

We are going to buy a summer house this year.

The phrase «be going to» can be used in reference to events if the situation clearly indicates that they are going to happen.

Look at those dark clouds. It is going to rain soon.

Watch out! That red car is going to turn right.

PRESENT PERFECT

Form: HAVE + past participle (I/we/you/they have done; he/she/it has done).

Meaning 1: The action has just ended.

Adverbs of time: already; just; yet (in questions and negative sentences).

I have just done it.

She has already talked to him.

He hasn’t returned from work yet.

Have they arrived yet? – Yes, they have. No, they haven’t.

Meaning 2: Reporting how often something has happened by now.

Adverbs of time: ever; never; once; twice; several times; always; often; sometimes.

I have never seen this film.

Have you ever been to Mexico?

He has visited his aunt twice already.

I have often seen her in the library.

I have sometimes thought of starting my own business.

Meaning 3: The result of past actions by the present moment.

Adverbs of time: by now; by the present moment; up to now; so far; before (i.e., by the present moment); since; lately.

He has written ten letters by now.

So far, she has read fourteen novels by Stephen King.

Up to now, I haven’t found this book.

She hasn’t seen him lately.

I’ve seen this movie before.

He has worked in several companies since he graduated from college.

Meaning 4: The action has lasted for some time by now.

Adverbs of time: for an hour; for a week; for a long time; for five years; for years; in years; since; lately.

I have known him for a year by now.

I haven’t seen him in years.

He has lived here for six years.

He has been very busy lately.

She has collected coins since she was a child.

In this meaning, the present perfect may be used instead of the present perfect continuous in certain cases. (See «Note: Present perfect and present perfect continuous» at the end of this material.)

Note: Present perfect and simple past

The present perfect tense is difficult for Russians. We mix it up with the simple past tense. The main difference between these tenses is that the present perfect expresses an action that comes up to the present moment and always has a connection with the present moment, while the simple past expresses a completed past action that started and ended in the past and has no connection with the present moment.

She has worked as a teacher for two years. (This is the situation by the present moment; she is still a teacher.)

She worked as a teacher for two years. She worked as a teacher from 1995 to 1997. (It was in the past; she is no longer a teacher.)

If the time of the action is indicated as «today, this morning, this month», etc., the present perfect is used if this period of time is not over yet at the moment of speaking; the simple past is used if the period of time is over or if the time of the action within the period is indicated as specific time in the past.

Present perfect: I haven’t seen him today. (Today is not over yet.) I have talked to him this morning. (It’s still morning.)

Simple past: I saw him today in the morning. (The morning is over.) I talked to him at ten o’clock today. (Today is not over yet, but ten o’clock is in the past.)

Thus, though the action in the present perfect started or happened in the past, it is always viewed as «by now; up to now» (that is, always in connection with the present moment), so the exact time of the past action is never indicated. If the time of the past action is indicated, the simple past is used. Compare:

Present perfect: I have already done it. I have seen him before. I have been there twice.

Simple past: I did it yesterday. I saw him about a month ago. I was there in 2006.

In everyday speech, especially in American English, the simple past may be used instead of the present perfect in some cases.

He has already eaten. He already ate.

We advise you not to do it. Generally, such things mislead you and make it more difficult to develop stable grammar. First, make your grammar correct and stable; only after that change it a little if you wish.

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

Form: HAVE + BEEN + present participle (I/we/you/they have been doing; he/she/it has been doing).

Meaning 1: The action has been going on for some time by now and is still going on.

Adverbs of time: for an hour; for a week; for a long time; for five years; for years; all day; all morning; since.

How long have you been waiting?

I’ve been waiting for about an hour.

I’ve been writing my report since morning.

It has been raining all day.

He has been living here for three years.

She has been working as a teacher for seven years already.

Meaning 2: The action has been going on lately. Additional context may indicate whether the action has been finished by now.

Adverbs of time: Usually without adverbs of time.

They have been working hard lately.

I have been thinking about buying a new car.

Oh, hello, Anton! We have just been talking about you.

It has been snowing hard, and our garden is still full of snow.

His clothes are wet because he has been playing in the rain.

Her eyes are red. Has she been crying again?

Note: Present perfect and present perfect continuous

Stative verbs are used in the present perfect tense instead of the present perfect continuous.

How long have you known Anna?

I’ve known her for many years.

She has been here since ten o’clock.

He has loved her ever since they met.

Some stative verbs can be used in the continuous tenses in some cases, including the present perfect continuous tense. (See «Present Continuous, Note: Stative verbs» above.)

He has been feeling much better lately.

She has been seeing him for two years.

In the meaning «the action has lasted for some time by now», the present perfect may be used instead of the present perfect continuous with those verbs which already express continued action in their lexical meaning, for example, «live, sleep, teach, walk, work». (Adverbial modifiers of time indicating periods of time are required with the present perfect tense in such cases.)

The difference between these tenses in such cases is not very big: the present perfect stresses the result of some continued activity by now, while the present perfect continuous stresses the duration of such activity by now. Compare:

He has been living here for years.

He has lived here for years.

He has been teaching history since 1995.

He has taught history since 1995.

She has been sleeping for two hours already.

She has slept for two hours already.

However, the difference in meaning between the two tenses may be significant in some cases. For example:

What have you been doing since I left?

What have you done since I left?

As it is often difficult for language learners to decide whether this or that verb conveys the same meaning if used in the present perfect instead of the present perfect continuous, it is advisable to apply the rules more strictly and to use the tense that is indicated in textbooks as the most appropriate for such cases.

Употребление времён группы Present описывается в данном материале. Выражения в группах «Adverbs of time» ниже включают в себя наречия, наречные сочетания, предлоги и союзы, которые часто употребляются с этими временами. Общая информация по английским временам и их наречиям времени дана в материале Key to English Tenses. Список форм времён для запоминания дан в материале Formulas of Tenses в разделе Grammar.

Простое настоящее

Форма: Базовая форма глагола: I/we/you/they do. Базовая форма глагола + s/es: he/she/it does. Глагол BE: I am; he/she/it is; we/you/they are.

Значение 1: Обычное, регулярное действие в настоящем.

Наречия частоты действия: обычно; регулярно; каждый день; каждую неделю; каждый год; часто; часто; иногда; иногда; редко; редко; никогда (т.е. нулевая регулярность); всегда (т.е. регулярно, обычно); по пятницам; по выходным.

Я обычно работаю до восьми.

Он пишет два письма каждый день.

Мы всегда ходим в этот магазин.

Он играет в теннис по субботам.

В моем родном городе часто идёт дождь.

Они редко ходят в кино.

Значение 2: Констатация факта, общеизвестной истины, профессии, положения или состояния.

Наречия времени: Обычно без наречий времени.

Солнце всходит на востоке.

Вода кипит при 100 градусах по Цельсию.

Чем она занимается? – Она работает учителем.

Он живёт в Москве и работает в больнице.

Она хорошо играет на пианино.

Она любит апельсины и бананы.

Их дом очень маленький.

Примечание: Правила прибавления окончания s/es для образования 3 лица ед. числа во времени simple present описаны в материале Adding the Ending s/es to Nouns and Verbs в разделе Writing.

Примечание: Действия по графику

Simple present употребляется вместо simple future для будущих действий согласно графику / расписанию (например, об общественном транспорте, фильмах, магазинах, банках).

Представление начинается через два часа.

Поезд приходит завтра в шесть.

Универмаг открывается в девять утра.

Я работаю в следующую субботу.

Примечание: Придаточные времени и условия

Simple present употребляется вместо simple future в придаточных предложениях времени и условия, так как будущее время не разрешено в этих придаточных предложениях. (См. Word Order in Complex Sentences в разделе Grammar.)

Он пойдёт туда, когда закончит свою работу.

Если я найду эту книгу, я дам её вам.

Настоящее продолженное

Форма: BE + причастие настоящего времени (I am doing; he/she/it is doing; we/you/they are doing).

Значение 1: Действие продолжается (длится) в настоящий момент, в момент говорения.

Наречия времени: сейчас; прямо сейчас; в данный момент.

Вы читаете этот материал сейчас.

Я пью кофе в данный момент.

Обычно он сидит у окна, но сейчас он сидит около входной двери.

Смотрите! Орел летит.

Слушайте! Музыка играет.

Значение 2: Действие продолжается в настоящее время, но не обязательно в момент говорения.

Наречия времени: сейчас; в настоящее время; в данный момент; в этом году.

Он пишет новый роман сейчас.

Он преподает в Редвуде в этом году.

Чем она занимается в эти дни? – Она работает в газете.

Я изучаю экономику в школе бизнеса.

Они строят свой собственный дом.

Цены снова поднимаются.

Её здоровье улучшается.

Примечание: Правила прибавления «ing» к глаголам описаны в материале Adding the Endings ed, ing to Verbs в разделе Writing.

Примечание: Глаголы состояния

Глаголы, выражающие умственное или эмоциональное состояние, умственное или чувственное восприятие, обладание и другие виды состояния, обычно не употребляются в продолженных временах. Такие глаголы называют глаголами состояния или непродолженными глаголами, т.к. они не выражают действия или процесса действия (в противоположность глаголам действия).

Глаголы состояния: понимать, знать, помнить, забыть, сомневаться, верить, полагать, думать (в значении «полагать»), значить, признать / узнать, осознавать, любить, любить, ненавидеть, хотеть, нуждаться в, предпочитать, пахнуть (т.е. издавать определённый запах), быть на вкус (т.е. иметь определённый вкус), слышать, видеть, чувствовать, казаться, выглядеть, быть, принадлежать, владеть, обладать, иметь, стоить, быть в долгу перед, включать в себя, содержать, весить и некоторые другие.

Simple present употребляется вместо present continuous с глаголами состояния.

Я вижу большую собаку во дворе.

Я понимаю, что вы имеете в виду.

Она предпочитает яркие цвета.

Он хочет купить новый автомобиль.

Этот цветок пахнет ужасно.

Этот автомобиль очень дорого стоит.

Дом принадлежит его матери.

Некоторые глаголы состояния, например, «look, think, see, feel, appear, smell, taste, have, weigh», также употребляются как глаголы действия, что значит, что как глаголы действия они могут употребляться в продолженных временах, с изменением в значении. Сравните эти предложения:

Она хорошо выглядит сейчас. (глагол состояния)

Она смотрит на него сейчас. (глагол действия)

Я думаю, он хороший писатель. (глагол состояния)

Тихо! Я думаю. (глагол действия)

Суп на вкус хороший. (глагол состояния)

Она пробует суп сейчас. (глагол действия)

Эта коробка весит три килограмма. (глагол состояния)

Он взвешивает яблоки. (глагол действия)

У него есть / Он имеет хороший дом возле большого парка. (глагол состояния)

Мы обедаем сейчас. (глагол действия)

Примечание: Запланированные действия

Present continuous употребляется вместо simple future для будущих действий согласно планам людей, т.е. заранее запланированные или заранее подготовленные будущие действия. Фраза «be going to» широко употребляется в устной и письменной речи для показа запланированного будущего действия.

Она уезжает во вторник.

Она собирается уехать во вторник.

Я обедаю с Томом завтра.

Я обедаю с Томом завтра.

Он идёт на концерт сегодня вечером.

Мы собираемся купить дачу в этом году.

Фраза «be going to» может употребляться в отношении событий, если ситуация ясно указывает, что они произойдут.

Посмотри на эти тучи. Скоро пойдёт дождь.

Осторожно! Та красная машина собирается повернуть направо.

Настоящее совершенное

Форма: HAVE + причастие прошедшего времени (I/we/you/they have done; he/she/it has done).

Значение 1: Действие только что закончилось.

Наречия времени: уже; только что; уже, ещё (в вопросах и отрицаниях).

Я только что сделал это.

Она уже разговаривала с ним.

Он ещё не вернулся с работы.

Они уже приехали? – Да, приехали. Нет, не приехали.

Значение 2: Информирование о том, как часто что-то происходило к настоящему моменту.

Наречия времени: когда-либо; никогда; один раз; дважды; несколько раз; всегда; часто; иногда.

Я никогда не видел этот фильм.

Вы когда-нибудь бывали в Мексике?

Он навестил свою тётю уже дважды.

Я часто видел её в библиотеке.

Я иногда думал о том, чтобы начать своё собственное дело.

Значение 3: Результат прошедших действий к настоящему моменту.

Наречия времени: к настоящему моменту; до сих пор; раньше (т.е. к настоящему моменту); с тех пор, как; за последнее время.

Он написал десять писем к настоящему моменту.

К настоящему времени она прочитала четырнадцать романов Стивена Кинга.

До сих пор я не нашёл этой книги.

Она не видела его в последнее время.

Я видел этот фильм раньше.

Он поработал в нескольких компаниях с тех пор, как окончил колледж.

Значение 4: Действие продлилось какое-то время к настоящему моменту.

Наречия времени: в течение часа; в течение недели; в течение долгого времени; в течение пяти лет; много лет; с тех пор, как; за последнее время.

Я знаю его уже год.

Я не видел его много лет.

Он здесь прожил шесть лет.

Он очень занят в последнее время.

Она собирает монеты с тех пор, когда она была ребенком.

В этом значении present perfect может употребляться вместо present perfect continuous в определённых случаях. (См. «Note: Present perfect and present perfect continuous» в конце данного материала.)

Примечание: Present perfect и simple past

Время present perfect трудно для русских. Мы смешиваем его с временем simple past. Главная разница между этими временами в том, что present perfect выражает действие, которое доходит до настоящего момента и всегда имеет связь с настоящим моментом, в то время как simple past выражает завершившееся прошедшее действие, которое началось и закончилось в прошлом и не имеет связи с настоящим моментом.

Она проработала учителем два года. (Такова ситуация к настоящему моменту; она всё ещё учитель.)

Она работала учителем два года. Она работала учителем с 1995 до 1997 года. (Это было в прошлом; она больше не учитель.)

Если время действия указывается как «today, this morning, this month» и т.д., present perfect употребляется, если этот период времени ещё не окончился в момент говорения; simple past употребляется, если этот период времени окончен или если время действия внутри периода указано как определённое время в прошлом.

Present perfect: Я не видел его сегодня. (Сегодня ещё не закончилось.) Я говорил с ним этим утром. (Сейчас всё ещё утро.)

Simple past: Я видел его сегодня утром. (Утро закончилось.) Я говорил с ним в десять часов сегодня. (Сегодня ещё не закончилось, но десять часов уже в прошлом.)

Таким образом, хотя действие в present perfect началось или произошло в прошлом, оно всегда рассматривается как «к настоящему времени; до сих пор» (то есть всегда в связи с настоящим моментом), поэтому точное время прошедшего действия никогда не указывается. Если время прошедшего действия указано, употребляется simple past. Сравните:

Present perfect: Я уже сделал это. Я видел его раньше. Я был там дважды.

Simple past: Я сделал это вчера. Я видел его примерно месяц назад. Я был там в 2006 году.

В разговорной речи, особенно в американском английском, может употребляться simple past вместо present perfect в некоторых случаях.

Он уже поел.

Советуем вам не делать этого. Как правило, такие вещи сбивают с толку и затрудняют выработку стабильной грамматики. Сначала сделайте свою грамматику правильной и стабильной; только после этого слегка изменяйте её, если пожелаете.

Настоящее совершенное продолженное

Форма: HAVE + BEEN + причастие настоящего времени (I/we/you/they have been doing; he/she/it has been doing).

Значение 1: Действие продолжалось (длилось) какое-то время к настоящему моменту и всё ещё длится.

Наречия времени: в течение часа; в течение недели; в течение долгого времени; в течение пяти лет; много лет; весь день; всё утро; с тех пор, как.

Как долго вы уже ждёте?

Я жду уже примерно час.

Я пишу свой доклад с утра.

Сегодня весь день идёт дождь.

Он живёт здесь уже в течение трёх лет.

Она работает учителем уже в течение семи лет.

Значение 2: Действие длительно продолжалось в последнее время. Дополнительный контекст может указывать, закончено ли действие к настоящему моменту.

Наречия времени: Обычно без наречий времени.

Они много работали (работают) в последнее время.

Я (уже долго) думаю о том, чтобы купить новый автомобиль.

Ой, привет, Антон! Мы (как раз) только что говорили о тебе.

Шёл сильный снег (долго), и наш сад всё ещё полон снега.

Его одежда мокрая, потому что он играл под дождем.

У неё глаза красные. Она опять плакала?

Примечание: Present perfect и present perfect continuous

Глаголы состояния употребляются во времени present perfect вместо present perfect continuous.

Как долго вы уже знаете Анну?

Я знаю её много лет.

Она находится здесь с десяти часов.

Он любит её с тех пор, как они познакомились.

Некоторые глаголы состояния могут употребляться в продолженных временах в некоторых случаях, в том числе во времени present perfect continuous. (См. «Present Continuous, Note: Stative verbs» выше.)

Он чувствует себя гораздо лучше в последнее время.

Она встречается с ним уже два года.

В значении «действие продлилось какое-то время к настоящему моменту», present perfect может употребляться вместо present perfect continuous с теми глаголами, которые и так выражают продолжительное действие в своем лексическом значении, например, «live, sleep, teach, walk, work». (Обстоятельства времени, указывающие периоды времени, требуются с временем present perfect в таких случаях.)

Разница между этими временами в таких случаях не очень большая: present perfect подчеркивает результат какого-то длительного действия к настоящему моменту, в то время как present perfect continuous подчеркивает длительность такого действия к настоящему моменту. Сравните:

Он живёт здесь уже много лет.

Он прожил здесь много лет.

Он преподаёт историю с 1995 года.

Он преподаёт историю с 1995 года.

Она спит уже в течение двух часов.

Она уже проспала два часа.

Тем не менее, разница в значении между этими двумя временами может быть значительной в некоторых случаях. Например:

Что вы делали (т.е. Чем вы занимались) с тех пор, как я уехал?

Что вы сделали с тех пор, как я уехал?

Поскольку для изучающих язык часто бывает трудно решить, передает ли тот или иной глагол то же значение, если его употребить в present perfect вместо present perfect continuous, целесообразно применять правила более строго и употреблять то время, которое указано в учебниках как наиболее подходящее для таких случаев.

Present Tense

Tenses demonstrate the time of action in sentences usually performed by or centered around the subject of the sentence. The actions are called verbs. Verbs change according to tenses and other issues. As verbs are the most important elements of English sentences, tenses also carry paramount importance in English grammar.

Tenses are mainly categorized into three types.

1. Present Tense

2. Past Tense

3. Future Tense

Present Tense

Each of the types of tenses has four different forms.

  • Present Indefinite Tense
  • Present Progressive (Continuous) Tense
  • Present Perfect Tense
  • Present Perfect Progressive (Continuous)

Examples of Present Tense

Present Indefinite Tense

The present indefinite tense, also known as simple present tense, denotes a stative or habitual or eternally true action.

Generally, simple present tense is used to indicate an action which happens – always, regularly, every day, daily, normally, generally, usually, occasionally, sometimes, often, rarely, frequently, nowadays, naturally, seldom, constantly, never, every week, every year, once a year, on a week, at times, at present, now and then, or all the time.

Structure:

Subject (third person singular number) + verb in simple present form + s/es + . . . . .

Subject (all other kinds) + verb in simple present form + . . . . .

Note: When ‘be’ verbs work as the main verb in a sentence, they are different from the above structures.

Person/Number

Singular

Plural

First

I am a good cricket player.

We are good cricket players.

Second

You are an irresponsible person.

You all are always irresponsible.

Third

The earth is smaller than Jupiter.

Junk food is not good for health.

There are some stative verbs that are usually used in simple tenses whether present or past or future.

The stative verbs are:

Have

Understand

Know

Believe

Hate

Need

Hear

Love

Appear

See

Like

Seem

Smell

Want

Taste

Wish

Sound

Own

Examples:

  • I know Billy Bob.
  • He understands it.
  • They love swinging in the park.
  • Some people do not believe in God.
  • I usually wake up at 6:00 AM.
  • He plays cricket, but his brother plays football.
  • Earth is bigger than Mercury.
  • The heat of the sun reaches the least to the polar.

How the Forms of Verbs Change in Different Types of Sentences

Affirmative

Interrogative

Negative

I sing on stage.

Do I sing on stage?

I don’t sing on stage.

We run behind the train.

Do we run behind the train?

We don’t run behind the train.

You are on the roof.

Are you on the roof?

You aren’t on the roof.

Allan writes well.

Does Allan write well?

Allan does not write well.

She hands out leaflets.

Does she hand out leaflets?

She doesn’t hand out leaflets.

They love dancing in the rain.

Do they love dancing in the rain?

They don’t love dancing in the rain.

More Examples of Present Indefinite Tense

Present Progressive (Continuous) Tense

The present progressive tense is used to indicate the ongoing time (now). However, the stative verbs do not usually take the form of present progressive tense even though they refer to the present time.

Now, continually, perpetually, at this moment, at the moment, right now, this season, this year, forever, etc. words or word pairs are usually signs that the verb in a sentence is in the present progressive form. However, these signs are not necessary all the time for a verb to be of present progressive tense.

Structure:

Subject + am/is/are + verb + ing + . . . . . . . . .

Example:

  • I am going to the college field.
  • He is coming here for some tips.
  • They are making a basketball ground.
  • Why are you working in that horrible place? (Interrogative)
  • Four teams are playing at this moment.
  • John is not joining the class today. (Negative)

This structure is also used to demonstrate future time.

Example:

  • Alex is leaving for Portugal.
  • I am going to complete my task.
  • We are leaving at 6:00 PM.
  • They are flying to Australia next month.

More Example of Present Progressive Tense

Present Perfect Tense

The present perfect tense is used when one intends to indicate:

  • an action that occurred at a time which is indefinite and has its effect on the subject
  • or an action that occurred many times and has the possibility to occur in the present/future
  • or an action that began in the past and still going on in the present.

Structure:

Subject + have/has + verb in the past participle form + . . . . . . .

The Present-Past-Past Participle Chart:

Present Form Past Form Past Participle Form
Shout Shouted Shouted
Read Read Read
Give Gave Given
Take Took Taken
Sing Sang Sung
Write Wrote Written
Wake Woke Woken
Cast Cast Cast
Lose Lost Lost

Example:

  • Alex has read the book through. (No time is indicated)
  • I have read this poem many times. (Not habitual but occurred many times in the past)
  • He has lived in this apartment for 15 years. (Still going on)

More examples:

  • Their event has not been approved this year. (Negative)
  • Have we really done so bad? (Interrogative)

Just, already, yet, just now, ever, lately, recently, etc. are some of the signs for present perfect tense.

Note: Already comes between have/has and the past participle; yet appears with a negative form at the end of the sentence.

Example:  

  • Alex has already reached there.
  • Alex has not reached yet.
  • I have already cleaned the house.
  • I have not cleaned the house yet.(Negative)
  • Has she already gone home? (Interrogative)

More Examples of Present Perfect Tense

Present Perfect Progressive (Continuous)

It is the least used form of present tense. Present perfect progressive tense is used to indicate an action that began in the past and is still occurring in the present. Both present perfect and present perfect continuous tense can be used to indicate this type of action.

Structure:

Subject + have/has + been + [verb + ing] + . . . . .+ for/since + time frame.

Example:

  • Alex has been reading for 3 years.
  • I have been sleeping since 10.00 AM.
  • Robert has been working in that shop for 6 years.
  • We have been living together for four years.
  • Have we really been waiting for a miracle for fifteen years? (Interrogative)
  • She hasn’t been doing her job well enough for the last 5 years. (Negative)

More Examples of Present Perfect Continuous Tense

Present Simple is a real simple tense in English!

когда используется present simple

Today we will talk about one of the most popular times of the English language — Present simple… As a rule, this tense is used when it comes to:

  • regularly repeated actions (dad always goes to Aunt Nina for sugar in the evenings)
  • events with a certain frequency (I learn English every day),
  • well-known facts (the Earth is round, the sky is blue, Putin is honest)
  • generalizations (cats love to eat mice),
  • and also when we talk about the timetable in the near future (the train leaves at seven in the evening).

Typically, the last note is about transportation, but can also be used with other scheduled events (the airship arrives at midnight, but the party starts at eight).

It is important to know that the ending —s / es. For example:

I learn English — He learnS English We play football — Everybody playS football

You go to school — My brother goES to school

The verb to be deserves special attention, but we will talk about it in a separate article.

First of all, this time should be used with events that occur with a certain frequency and / or regularity (regularity is also a kind of periodicity).

  • I go to school every day — I go to school every day
  • My friend often eats eggs — My friend often eats eggs
  • We usually play football in spring — We often play football in spring
  • I get up at 11 o’clock every Sunday — I wake up at 11 o’clock on Sundays

Such adverbs as: often, always, rarely, never, sometimes, every day, every other day, etc., etc., can act as a kind of indicator words for the use of Present Simple time.

Often. always. Seldom. Never. SOMETIMES. every day. Every other day.

Present Simple with facts and generalizations

When it comes to a specific fact or generalization, there is no better time than Present Simple.

  • The Sun is yellow — The sun is yellow
  • Children toys — Children love toys
  • Russia is a very big country — Russia is a very big country

Present Simple with planned events in the future

As mentioned above, most often this applies to the schedule of buses, trains, airplanes and other airships. However, when you are sure that the party starts at XNUMX pm (as was planned earlier), be sure to use the present time.

  • The train leaves at seven — The train leaves at seven
  • The party starts at five — Party starts at five
  • The class begins at six — Classes begin at six

Present Simple is pretty simple currently in English… With a little effort, you can easily master it.

Source: https://smartstart.today/grammar/tenses/presentsimple/

когда используется present simple

Present Simple  used when it comes to ordinary, regular or more / less constant actions in the present tense.

I read every day. — I read every day.
This sentence is about a routine that repeats every day.

She loves to travel. — She s to travel.
She generally loves to travel.

For the formation of Present Simple, we use the initial one, that is Form I a verb (the form given in dictionaries).

Statement

I work -I am working
We work — We are working
you work — You work / You work
They work — They work
my parents work — My parents are working

In statements in the 3rd person unit. h. (he, she, it) the ending is added to the verb -s (-es):

He works — He works
She works — She works
It works — He (for example, a computer) works
My brother works — My brother works

Denial

Negation in Present Simple is formed using an auxiliary verb do and particles Note… Do not is placed before the main verb.

I do not work — I am not working
We do not work- We do not work
you do not work- you don’t work / you don’t work
They do not work — They don’t work
my parents do not work — My parents do not work

In denials in the 3rd person unit. h (he, she, it) ending -s (-es) added to the auxiliary verb do, and the main verb is used without ending (do+esNote) [dʌz].

He does not work — It does not work
She does not work — It does not work
It does not work — It (computer) does not work
My brother does not work — My brother is not working

Note that doNote и does not also used in short form:

do not = do not (I don’t work — I don’t work)

does not = Does not (He doesn’t work — He doesn’t work)

Questions

An auxiliary verb is used to form interrogative sentences do, which is placed before the subject.

Do you work? — You are working? / Do you work?
Do they work? — They work?
Do your parents work? — Do your parents work?

For the formation of questions in the 3rd person ed. h. an auxiliary verb is placed in front of the subject do with ending -Is, the main verb remains without an ending.

Does he work? — He works?
Does she work? — She works?
Does it work? — Does he (the computer) work?
Does your brother work? — Does your brother work?

If the question starts with an interrogative word (what? Where? Why? When? Etc.), then that interrogative word is placed before the auxiliary verb.

Where do you work? — Where do you work?
Where does she work? — Where does she work?

Note that the subject question who? (who?) is formed differently. In this case, no auxiliary verb is required. The interrogative word who? is put in the place of the subject, while the semantic verb has the form of 3 liters. singular, so the ending -s (-es) is added to it.

Who works in a bank? — Who works at the bank?
Who’s to travel? — Who likes to travel?

Features of adding the ending -s (-es) to verbs in 3 liters. units h

If the verb ends in:

  • -s, -ss, -sh, -ch, -x, -o, -zz then added -Is: I miss — he misses, I wish — he wishes, I teach- he teaches, I fix — he fixes, I go — he goes, I buzz — he buzzes.
  • consonant + y, then -y changes to i, and adds -es (ies): I cry — he cries, I try — he tries.
  • vowel + y, then the ending is added -s: I play — he plays, I enjoy — he enjoys.

In all other cases, the ending is added -s.

Exception: I have — he has

Pronunciation features of the ending -s (-es)

If the verb ends in:

  • voiceless consonant, then the ending -s (-es) is pronounced [s]: I start [stɑːt] — he starts [stɑːts], I write [raɪt] — he writes [raɪts].
  • media or vowel soundsthen -s (-es) is pronounced [z]: I build [bɪld] — he builds [bɪldz], I come [kʌm] — he comes [kʌmz], I go [ɡəʊ] — he goes [ɡəʊz], I play [pleɪ] — he plays [pleɪz].
  • hissing or whistling sound (that is, the letters -s, -ss, -z, -sh, -ch, -tch, -x, -dge, -ge), then -s (-es) is pronounced as [ɪz]: I kiss [kɪs] — he kisses [kɪsɪz], I wash [wɒʃ] — he washes [wɒʃɪz], I catch [kætʃ] — he catches [kætʃɪz], I fix [fɪks] — he fixes [fɪksɪz], I change [tʃeɪndʒ] — he changes [tʃeɪndʒɪz].

Verb to be (to be) is a special verb. To be does not obey the general rules of education of the present simple time. Read about the use of the verb to be in Present Simple in this handbook article:

Verb to be in Present Simple

Using Present Simple

Present Simple (present simple tense) is used in different situations, that is, it can express:

Regularly repetitive, routine activities in the present tense

Often with the words: Cada dia (everyday), every week (every week), from time to time (occasionally), Sometimes (sometimes), usually (usually), always (always), often (often), seldom (rarely), never (never), once a week (once a week), twice a year (twice a year)

I play tennis every Friday. — I play tennis every Friday.
We often go to the cinema. — We often go to the movies.
He never plays football. — He never plays football.

More or less constant actions in the present tense

That which «in general» is happening in the present tense.

Source: https://myefe.ru/reference/verbs/tenses/present-simple

Lesson 11. Present Simple Time in English

когда используется present simple

Daria SorokinaLinguist-translator, teacher of foreign languages.

A very important topic awaits us today, namely tenses in the English language. Times in English 12. Present, past and future, and in each of them there are four types. We will undoubtedly have to learn all this, but we will start from the beginning, from the simplest time: Present Simple.

You are already pretty good with the verb be and you know how to say who is who or who looks like. Also, you can already say what someone has or not, for this you need to use the verb have got or has got. What if you want to build a sentence with a verb, for example: I am walking, Vanya is reading, etc.? That’s why we need to get acquainted with the times.

Use of Present Simple Time

Present Simple is used when we are talking about:

  1. Regular action that characterizes a person.
  2. He lives in Moscow. He lives in Moscow.

  3. Facts, absolute truths, laws of nature.
  4. Water boils at 100 degrees. Water boils at 100 degrees.

  5. Regularly repetitive actions.
  6. He always does his homework. He always does his homework.

  7. Sports commentary, author’s inserts.
  8. Pavarotti sings wonderfully in this opera. Pavarotti sings wonderfully in this opera.

  9. Schedule, programs (in the meaning of future tense).
  10. The race starts at 3.00. The race will start at 3 o’clock.

Use Present Simple:

  1. Regular action that characterizes a person.
  2. Facts, absolute truths, laws of nature.
  3. Regularly repetitive actions.
  4. Sports commentary, author’s inserts.
  5. Schedule, programs (in the meaning of future tense).

Time Education Present Simple

Now we need to consider how this time is actually formed. In an affirmative sentence, everything is simple. We take the verb in the infinitive, remove the to particle and put it in the sentence. English does not have as many endings as, for example, Russian or German.

Present tense has only one ending in Present Simple s and it is added to verbs in the third person singular (pronouns he, she, it).

Let’s take a verb to work — work and conjugate it in the present tense.

I workhe worksshe worksit workswe workyou work

they work

Note: you should remember about the verbs that end in ss, sh, ch, x, o. To these we add the ending -es instead of -s. Also, the –y verbs deserve special attention. If there is a consonant before the ending, then it changes to –ies, if there is a vowel, then just add –s.

This rule is easy to remember if you know how the plural forms of nouns, because the principle of forming the endings is the same.

For example: I wash — he washes, I go — he goes, I cry — he cries.

With denial, things are a little different. Here the verb does not form a negation itself, as it was with the verbs be and have got, but with the help of an auxiliary verb do or does and the negative particle not.

Does is used with the third person singular (while the main verb loses the ending s), but do with all other forms, that is, this is the plural and the pronoun I. We conjugate the same verb work.

The abbreviated form of the verb is given in brackets.

I do not work (don’t work) he does not work (doesn’t work) she does not work (doesn’t work) it does not work (doesn’t work) we do not work (don’t work) you do not work (don’t work)

they do not work (don’t work)

When translating, the verbs do and does are not translated in any way, they only help to build a sentence, therefore they are called auxiliary. Only the semantic (or main) verb is translated. In this case, it is work.

Questions are also built with the help of auxiliary verbs do or does, only in this case the auxiliary verb is put in the first place, then comes the pronoun or noun, and then the semantic verb.

Do I work? Does he work? Does she work? Does it work? Do we work? Do you work?

Do they work?

That’s all there is to the Present Simple time. Your task now is to learn how to correctly form sentences in this time and then actively use them in your speech!

Lesson assignments

  1. Translate the sentences.
  2. We love fish. It eats chicken. I drive the car. The kids do their homework. You live in Italy. Nick plays tennis. You play the piano.

    Mary goes to school.

  3. Insert the negation and translate the sentences.

Source: https://linguistpro.net/present-simple

English Times for Beginners: Present Simple

This is a 3-part series that will help you understand basic English tenses, their conjugation and learn how to build your own phrases automatically.

The present tense is used all the time in English, so it is important to properly understand its logic. Knowing the rules for the formation of simple sentences, it will be easier to master the rest of the system of English tenses.

How to build a phrase in Present Simple

First, let’s talk about action verbs that answer the questions “what to do?”, “What are you doing” (we will discuss state verbs separately).

  • Statement: the form of the verb does not change, except for the 3rd person, singular. numbers. In this case, the ending is added to the verb -s.

Let’s see an example with the verb sing — to sing.

I sing. — I sing. — You sing. — We sing. — They sing.

He sings… — He sings.

She sings… — She sings.

Important:

  1. don’t forget the -s ending!
  2. for some verbs when adding an ending -s spelling changes: study — studies, fly — flies
  3. remember the exception verbs: have — has, do — does, go — goes
  • Negation: in this case, we put before the action verb don’t (full form — do not) or doesn’t for the 3rd person singular. numbers (long form does not). We don’t add any endings to the verb itself!

I do not sing. — I don’t sing.
you do not sing. — You don’t sing.
We do not sing. — We don’t sing.
They do not sing. — They don’t sing.
He Does not sing. — He doesn’t sing.
She Does not sing. — She doesn’t sing.

  • Questions are simple: put the auxiliary verb do or does at the beginning of the sentence.

Do I sing? — I sing?
Do you sing? — You sing?
Do we sing? — We sing?
Do they sing? — They sing?
Does he sing? — He sings?
Does she sing? — She sings?

These questions can be answered “yes” or “no” according to the principle: “Yes, I do” or “No, I don’t”. Replace the pronoun if necessary and try not to confuse do / does.))

If the question is clarifying, then you need a question word. We put it at the very beginning before the auxiliary verb do or does.

Why do I sing? — Why am I singing?
What do you sing? — What are you singing?
When do we sing? — When do we sing?
How do they sing? — How do they sing?
Where does he sing? — Where is he singing?
Which song does she sing? — What song is she singing?

Verb To Be

Separate consideration requires the English verb to be — to be, to be, to be.

After all, we do not always say that we are performing some kind of action. Sometimes we talk about where we are (“I’m in Paris right now,” “John is at work”), who we work for (“I am a doctor,” “my brother is a student»), and so on. Literally: «I am now in Paris», «I am a doctor»).

The action verb is not needed here, so the state verb to be helps out, which has its own forms. You just need to remember them.

  • Affirmative suggestions:

I am a singer. — I am a singer (singer).
He / she is a doctor. — He / she is a doctor.
We / you / they are friends. — We / you / they are friends.

  • In denial add the not particle to the verb to be:

I am not — I‘m not
He is not — He is not
We are not — We aren’t

Please note that abbreviated forms are used in everyday speech. I am writing the full form for you so that you know where and what is being formed.

  • Question begins with the desired form of the verbs to be:

Am I right? — I’m right)?
Is he your brother? — Is he your brother?
Are you cold? — Are you cold?

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When to use Present Simple

  1. to express facts that are always true:

The sun rises in the east. — The sun rises in the east.
It rains in autumn. — It rains in autumn.

  1. to describe habits and regular actions (hint words: twice a month — twice a month, every Tuesday — every Tuesday, often — often, sometimes — sometimes, always — always, seldom — rarely)

How often do they study Chinese? — How often do they practice Chinese? — Where she lives?

What is your job? — What’s your job? (literally «What is your job?»)

  1. in the future, when it comes to the official timetable (lessons, meetings, arrival / departure times of trains and airplanes, movie timetables or theater performances, etc.)

Lessons begin at nine tomorrow. — Lessons start tomorrow at 9.Our train arrives at twelve. — Our train arrives at 12.

What time does the film start? — What time does the film start at?

  1. in the future, after the words if — if, when — when, until — until, as soon as — as soon as, after — after, before — before

Source: https://elenaruvel.com/anglijskie-vremena-dlya-novichkov-nastoyashhee-prostoe-present-simple/

English for everyone

In one of the previous articles, we dwelt in detail on the formation of this Present Simple time, and considered education in all three forms — affirmative, negative and interrogative. Education is clearly visible here — Present Simple Education Table.

When is do and does used in Present Simple? There are generally three possible uses, even four. Let’s consider all these possible uses.

First use of do and does in Present Simple

In general, the verb do can not act as an auxiliary verb, but simply as a regular verb. Let’s translate the following sentences into English:

I always do my homework I always do my homework
She does the cleaning every day She does housework every day

That is, we simply use the verb do with the addition of s or without the addition. This is an ordinary verb.

Second use of do and does in Present Simple

The verb do or does can act as an auxiliary verb, that is, it will help in the formation of the Present Simple tense. In which cases? In questions. And also the sentence must contain a verb. Here is a table of the correct choice of do or does

Do I work?
we
you
they
Does he
she
it

Examples of sentences and their translation into Russian:

You know the answer? Do you know the answer?
Does she go to school five days a week? Does she go to school five days a week?

Third use of do and does in Present Simple

We have already said that in the negative form when forming Present Simple, we mainly use abbreviated forms — doesn’t or don’t. Keep in mind, however, that these are shorthand forms for does not and do not. Here do and does also act as auxiliary verbs.

Present Simple education table in negation, in full form

I do not work
We
you
They
He does not
She
It

And the last thing I would like to dwell on is inversion. Inversion is sometimes used in English. It is used for amplification. And the reverse word order is used. Let’s translate into English:

I really like this computer

But you can also use inversion and we replace really with do or does depending on the person.

I really like this computer I do this computer
She really knows the truth She does know the truth

Perhaps the fourth is the least common use of do and does, but it also occurs in English.

Source: http://bebris.ru/2012/02/29/present-simple-do-does/

Present Simple in English: Everything You Need to Know | English is easy!

Present Simple grammatical tense is the simple present in English. This is the easiest verb construction to understand. It is with Present Simple that the acquaintance with English grammar begins. We will try to describe the rules for using Present Simple in the simplest and most accessible way, with examples.

When is Present Simple used

The rules state that Present Simple is used to express ordinary actions that are constant or regularly repeated. For example, when it comes to daily routine, any habits, daily schedule, etc.

The simple present in English is used when:

  1. It speaks about something in general or all known facts. For example:
  • Koalas lives in Australia. — Koalas live in Australia.
  • The sun rises in the east. — The sun rises in the east.
  • A cat has four legs. — The cat has four legs.
  1. We are talking about ordinary repetitive activities that happen in general, on a regular basis. For example:
  • The shop opens at 8.30 in the morning. — The store opens at 30 in the morning.
  • The train to Tallinn leaves every hour. — The train to Tallinn leaves every hour.
  1. To describe someone’s habits and routines. For example:
  • Alice brushes her teeth twice a day. — Alice brushes her teeth twice a day.
  • I always close the window in the evening. — I always close the window in the evening.
  1. To describe the preparation of food, in instructions and manuals instead of the imperative mood, when several step-by-step actions are listed:
  • We mix flour and eggs. We add a pinch of sugar. We bake a cake at 250 degrees. — Mix flour and eggs, add a pinch of sugar. We bake the cake at a temperature of 250 degrees.
  1. If you need to shorten long headlines in newspapers and news bulletins. For example:
  • Amazon receives Patent for Drone Delivery System. — Amazon received a patent for a drone delivery system.

That is, the Present Simple is used to indicate actions that occur every day, at the present time, but are not tied to this particular moment of speaking.

Present Simple Education Rules

The present simple tense in English is formed according to the principle:

  1. For creating affirmative proposal you need to use a verb without a particle to or add the ending –s / es for the 3rd person singular (he, she, it) and put it after the subject (the performer of the action).
I drive I drive
You drive You drive
He / she / it drives He, she, it drives
We drive We drive
You drive You drive
They drive They drive
  1. For interrogative sentences, you need to take the helper or auxiliary verb and put do or does for the 3rd person singular.
Do I drive? I drive?
Do you drive Do you drive?
Do he / she / it drives Does he, she, does it drive?
Do we drive Are we driving?
Do you drive Do you drive?
Do they drive Do they drive?
  1. For negative sentences, helper verbs or the auxiliary verbs do and does + not are also used.
I don’t drive I do not drive
You don’t drive You don’t drive
He / she / it doesn’t drive He, she, it doesn’t drive
We don’t drive We do not drive
You don’t drive You don’t drive
They don’t drive They don’t drive

If the question begins with the word Do you?, Then answer «Yes, I do.» or «No, I don’t» (= do not). If the question starts with Does he / she / it? — also answer “Yes, he / she / it does” or “No, he / she / it doesn’t” Note that the ending –s / es in the 3rd person singular disappears.

Remember the rule Present Simple to answer the question: answer as asked.

However, if the question starts with when, who, why, where, which, or how, then the previous scheme will not work. In this case, you need to add the particle not to the auxiliary verb according to the scheme: subject / object + do / does not + main verb + everything else.

For example:

I don’t this T ‑ shirt. — I don’t like this T-shirt.

Difficult use cases for Present Simple

In English, the simple present tense is also used in conditional statements of the zero (Zero Conditional) and the first type (First Conditional). Consider the features of using Present Simple in such sentences.

Conditional clauses zero type (Zero Conditional) imply the application of the always true condition — when it comes to all known information, scientific facts, generally accepted statements or laws of nature.

Zero Conditional is formed according to the following scheme:

If + Present Simple (condition), Present Simple (result)

For example:

If you freeze water, it becomes ice. — If you freeze water, it turns into ice.

Conditional clause first type (First Conditional) implies the existence of a «real» condition — something that will certainly happen soon if this condition is met.

First Conditional is formed according to the following scheme:

If + Present Simple (condition), Future Simple (result)

For example:

If this museum is open, we will go on an excursion there. — If the museum is open, we will go there for an excursion.

In such statements, after the «if» there is Present Simple, even in cases where the action will occur in the future.

For example:

The cat will scratch you if you pull her tail. — A cat will scratch you if you pull its tail.

Another difficult use of Present Simple in English is clauseswhen Present simple is used after until (not yet), when (when) or as soon as (as soon as), provided that the action occurs in the future. refers to the future tense.

Scheme of the formation of a subordinate clause in the present tense:

When / until / as soon as + Present Simple, Future Simple (result)

For example:

I will stay at home until he comes back. “I’ll be home until he comes back.

So, Present Simple in English is used in many cases, therefore it is studied at different levels of mastering foreign speech and literacy.

5 English Proverbs with Present Simple

Since Present Simple is the most popular tense in the English language, it is often used in idioms and sayings of folk wisdom.

For example:

  • Oil and water don’t mix. — Water and oil are not mixed. Analog in Russian culture: Goose is not a pig’s friend.

Source: https://simplenglish.ru/present-simple/

Everything about Present Simple

Russian-speaking people think the English system of more than 10 times is very complex, meaningless and unnecessary. Behind this seeming meaninglessness, there is simply a different mentality. In fact, each time in its own way is important and necessary in the language!

What is the simple present tense for in English

Very often in our speech situations arise when it is necessary to say or talk about what you usually do. For example, friends might ask, «What do you do on weekends?» relatives ask: «Why are you so busy every day that you cannot come to visit us?» or a disgruntled stranger to make a complaint: «Do you always park your car like this?»

Just to compose your answer, you will use Present Simple! In Russian, the name of the time sounds like «Real simple».

How is formed

When studying modern times, we have been taught since school times that the first and most important rule is the way of education and the description of the construction of sentences of any time. Let’s consider how Present Simple is built and behaves in different types of sentences.

No auxiliary verb needed when forming
We Have breakfast all together every day. It’s our family tradition. In the example, the affirmative form of the verb. This is the most favorite type of sentence construction for students. The scheme for constructing a sentence: take a subject, put a real simple form of the verb in English (that is, the initial form, which is fixed in the dictionary) and get affirmative sentence.
My little brother drives his ty car with pleasure. In this affirmative sentence there is a little addition that is often forgotten — s. The ending must be added: when we are not talking about ourselves, but about someone else, one person; in affirmative sentences and questions to the subject.

Source: https://englishfun.ru/grammatika/vsyo-o-present-simple

Present Simple — simple present in English

Time Present simple denotes an action that takes place in the present. It is used to denote an action that occurs at all, not necessarily at the moment, if it happens constantly, or is repeated.

It doesn’t matter to us whether the action takes place at the time of speech, for example, when we talk about someone’s habits, daily routine, schedule, etc., i.e.

 Present simple denotes actions that are currently taking place, but are not tied specifically to the moment of speech.

Let’s consider how the verb conjugates using the example of «love» — ​​to love.

Affirmative sentences

I love we love
you love you love
He/she/it loves they love

As you can see, the form of the verb changed only in the 3rd person, where the ending appeared -s.

Note
In the formation of a third person, joining the end -s, you should remember: if the verb ends in -s, -ss, -sh, -ch, -x, -o, then the ending is added to it -Is; to verbs in -y the ending is also added -es а -y replaced by -i-.

He washes his car. He washes his car. (infinitive wash, ends in sh, therefore we add -Is)
Hetries. He tries (infinitive try, ending y, then we add -Is and change -and- on —i-)

Interrogative sentence

An auxiliary verb is used to construct an interrogative sentence «Do» and it is he who is conjugated, i.e. when using 3rd person, it will have the shape does.

As for the word order in such a sentence. In the first place is the interrogative word, if any, followed by the auxiliary verb, then the subject and the predicate verb itself.

Wh-question + do / did / have / had / will + subject + verb?

Do I love? Do we love?
Do you love? Do you love?
Does he/she/it love? Do they love?

Do you love me? Do you love me?
Does he speak English? He speaks English?

Negative sentences

To give the sentence the meaning of negation, you must use the auxiliary verb do and add a particle to it Note.

Do not. in colloquial speech, they most often resort to its abbreviated form: don’t, doesn’t

I don’t love We don’t love
You don’t love You don’t love
He/she/it doesn’t love They don’t love

When constructing questions with negation, we construct a sentence in the same way as with «Do», but only now together with the negative particle Note.

I don’t you. I like you. He doesn’t have a new car. He doesn’t have a new car.

Doesn’t she have a new car? Doesn’t she have a new car?

Examples of use Present simple

Regular and repetitive actions,

I often go to the city. I often travel to the city.
They dance every weekend. They dance every weekend.

Actions taking place right now, talking about the present,

I go to the city now. I’m on my way to town now.
We live in Kaliningrad.

When listing some well-known facts,

The Earth is round. The earth is round.

And also in some cases, indicating the past or future (the train leaves, arrives), when listing any actions (take, add, subtract, transfer, get ..).

As you can see, English Present Simple is used in the same cases as in Russian, when we use the verb in the present tense.

Note
The conjugation of the verb to be is different from the conjugation of other verbs, it should be studied separately and memorized!

Source: https://engrammar.ru/grammar/present-simple-prostoe-nastoyashhee-vremya-v-anglijskom-yazyke/

The Present Simple Tense (rules for beginners)

Unlike the Russian language, in which the verb has only ONE present tense, in English there are as many as FOUR of them:

The Present Simple Tense, The Present Continuous Tense, The Present Perfect Tense belong to the basic level. And today you will find out basic rules of Present Simple Tense, namely:

1. When should you use Present Simple Tense in a sentence?

2. What temporal expressions indicate Present Simple Tense?

3. What is the form of the verb in Present Simple Tense?

4. How to write a sentence in Present Simple Tense?

5. When should you add the -S ending to a verb in Present Simple Tense?

6. How is the ending -S / -ES pronounced in a verb?

* * *

1. When should you use a simple present tense in a sentence?

We’ll start our conversation about the times from the simple present tense (The Present Simple Tense), which sometimes does not seem simple, but is such in essence, since you can use it in any sentence that is relevant to the present time, that is, the verb which answers the question what does the object do?

Attention! Further, we will replace the word object with the word actor and designate it — D.L, and instead of the word verb we will use the word action, which we denote — D.

The only exceptions to this case are situations in which D.L. commits D. at this moment in time, but then the sentence contains the words: now, at this moment, listen! Look. In this case, you need to use The Present Continuous Tense (present for a long time).

Rule 1. If the action in the sentence takes place in the present tense NOT at the moment, then you can safely use the simple present tense of the verb — The Present Simple Tense.

* * *

2. What temporal expressions indicate a simple present?

Formally Present simple tense used in a sentence if it contains temporary expressions (hints): every day (week, month, year), once a week (day, month, year), on Saturdays (Sundays,), always — never, often — seldom, usually — sometimes

Examples.

  • I go to work every day.
  • We go to the park once a week.
  • He usually comes home late.

When should you add the -S ending to an action verb? — HERE

Translation of these expressions:

  • every day — every day (week, month, year)
  • once a week — once a week (day, month, year)
  • on Saturdays — on Saturdays (Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, etc.)
  • always — always
  • never — never
  • often — often
  • seldom — rarely
  • usually — usually
  • sometimes — sometimes

or other words. The CONTEXT is also a hint (but this is no longer the basic level).

Rule 2. If the sentence contains temporary expressions always — never, often — seldom, usually — sometimes, etc. and the action takes place in the present tense, then you can safely use the simple present tense of the verb — The Present Simple Tense.

* * *

3. What is the form of the verb in the simple present tense?

Rule 3. The verb in the simple present tense stands in first form… This is the basic form of the verb and you will find it in the dictionary. Sometimes they call her —  infinitive of a verb without a particle to… Further, we will designate this form — D. (action).

* * *

4. How to write a sentence in Present Simple Tense?

Rule 4. Below are three schemes of sentences in Present Simple. Use the schemes.

(from the book “English Grammar: Simple on the Difficult)

Note that the auxiliary DOES appears in a negative and interrogative sentence only in the 3rd person singular. number.  CM. Rule 5 (below).

* * *

5. When should the ending -S be added to a verb in the present simple tense?

Rule 5. The ending -S is added to the action verb in the affirmative sentencewhen D.L. (subject in a sentence) is in the third person singular, that is, it is a pronoun he, she, it or it can be replaced with a pronoun he, she, it.

EXAMPLES.

He reads every day. — The boy reads every day.

Source: http://englishinn.ru/prostoe-nastoyashhee-vremya-glagola-the-present-simple-tense.html

Present Simple: rules, examples and use cases

In this article, you will find everything you need to know to successfully build sentences in English in Present simple (simple present). We will analyze the grammatical rules for constructing affirmative, negative and interrogative sentences, as well as cases of using the simple present tense. All rules are accompanied by examples.

Use our Present Simple interactive online exercises to test and train your knowledge.

The material is intended for everyone who learns English from scratch, as well as for those who want to refresh and systematize their knowledge.

Use Cases Present Simple

In order to understand well in what cases it will be appropriate and competent to use this tense, consider when the simple present is used in English.

Case 1. Reporting Habits, Regular Activities

Familiar facts or repeated actions with adverbs for a long time: often — often, usually — usually, as a rule — usually, always — always, Sometimes — sometimes, Cada dia — everyday, every week — every week, etc. With adverbs giving negative meaning: seldom — rarely, Rarely — rarely, hardly ever — almost never. Examples:

My parents live in London.

My parents live in London (permanent residence).

I prefer green Chinese tea for breakfast.

I prefer green Chinese tea for breakfast (habit)

I seldom eat pork.

I rarely eat pork (habit)

Autumn follows summer.

Summer is followed by autumn (law of nature)

We hardly ever wear smart dresses at school.

We almost never wear fancy dresses in school (student rule)

When perfection comes, all imperfect disappears.

When perfection comes, everything imperfect disappears (a wise saying used for centuries)

Case 2. We talk about well-known facts, laws of nature, mathematics, physics, etc.

This includes both strict laws of nature and sciences, as well as definitions, familiar facts, a statement of fact. Examples:

Two by two is four.

Two by two is four.

Berlin is the capital of Germany.

Berlin is the capital of Germany.

The Volga flows into the Caspian Sea.

The Volga flows into the Caspian Sea

A nurse is a person who works in hospitals and looks after patients.

A nurse is a person who works in a hospital and cares for patients.

The Sun sets in the West.

The sun sets in the west.

Case 3. We use the simple present to replace the imperative

We use Present Simple replacing Imperative Mood (imperative mood) when we give advice on the use of medicines or food, recipes for dishes, or explain to a passerby how to get somewhere on the street:

First you take 1kg flour and add 3 fresh eggs

First, take 1 kilogram of flour and 3 eggs.

You go along this street about five mins then turn left at the crossroads.

Walk along this street for about 5 minutes and then turn right.

You clean the living room and then do the washing up in the kitchen.

You clean the living room and then you wash the kitchen floor.

Case 4. Story, narration about actions, events not tied to a specific time

We tell an anecdote, describe the main storyline of the film, production, etc.

This old woman lives along in a thick forest.

The old woman lives alone in a dense forest 

Case 5. Present Simple is used with the verbs of state and possession (instead of Present Continuous)

There are two categories of verbs that use the simple present instead of the long one. Let’s consider these groups and examples of sentences with them.

State verbs

First, it is verbs that show our state (not action), sensations of the senses, visual or mental perception. Consider a table with examples:

# Verb Examples 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Know I know Peter well. He is my friend I know Petya well. He is my friend.
Remember I remember that year
Understand I understand you and your mother. I understand you and your mom.
Mind I don’t mind.
Agree Do you agree with me on this project?
Want Want I don’t want to take this bike.
Wish I wish to come back home.
Hear I hear everything. I hear everything.
See I see the building against the store.
Love I love my wife. I love my wife.
DisDon’t love I dis cruelty. I don’t like cruelty.
Seem It seems to me or are you really?
Prefer Prefer She prefers to be silent, when he is tired.

Possession verbs

Second, the with verbs that indicate possession or possession… Consider a table with examples:

# Verb Examples 1 2 3 3 3

Own I own a big house.
Belong to It doesn’t belong to my sister.
Have (has) To have, to have She doesn’t have a sense of humor.
Include Does the tour include food?
Owe owe, owe, owe He owes the bank.

For all verbs except to be

First, consider the scheme for constructing affirmative sentences in Present Simple. It’s very simple, you need to take:

  1. actor
  2. and put next to the verb from the dictionary (without the to particle)
  3. add the rest of the words (if any).

Pay attention to the word order: character + semantic verb + other words.

I drink tea.

I’m drinking tea.

You work in an office.

You work in an office.

We live in Moscow.

We live in Moscow.

they go to the theater.

They go to the theater.

Ann and peter go to the theater.

Anya and Petya go to the theater.

I, YOU, WE, THEY + VERBIN INFINITIVE + OTHER WORDS.

This is the rule for constructing affirmative sentences for 1st and 2nd person (that is, for nouns that can be replaced with pronouns: I (I), you (you), We (you), They (they)).

To build a proposal for 3nd person (that is, for nouns that can be replaced by pronouns He (he), She (she), It (it is animals and inanimate objects)) the ending must be added to the verb -s / -es.

SHE, HE, IT + VERB ENDED -S / -ES + OTHER WORDS.

She drinks tea.

She drinks tea.

Ann drinks tea.

Anya is drinking tea.

Doesn’t work in an office.

He is working in the office.

Peter works in an office.

Petya works in the office.

it lives here.

It lives here.

The cat lives here.

The cat lives here.

Ending -s or -es?

It is necessary to clarify when the ending -s is added to the semantic verb, and when -es. We can say that the ending -s is always added, but there are two exceptions, in which instead of -s, we write -es:

We write the ending -Iswhen the verb ends in -o, -ch, -sh, -x, -s, -z.

examples:

Source: https://englishplan.ru/grammatika/present-simple

Lesson 3 — Present Simple

In this lesson: — New words — The verb «to be»

— Present Simple — simple present

The verb to be in English

The meaning of the verb to be is to be, to be. The verb to be is conjugated (i.e. changes by person and number).

Forms of the verb to be:

I am — I am (exist) He / She / It is — he, she, it is (exists) We are — we are (exist) You are — you, you are (exist)

Тhey are — they are (exist)

I am in the room. — I’m in the room.
The book is on the table. — The book is on the table.

Important! Unlike the Russian language, in English the linking verb is never omitted. An English sentence has a strictly fixed word order: subject + predicate + object.
I am a doctor. — I am a doctor. (I am a doctor.)

He is from London. — He’s from London.

The verb to be is not translated into Russian in most cases!
I am happy. — I’m happy.

The book is good. — The book is good.

To ask a question, you need to put the verb to be before the subject: Am I happy?

Is the book good?

To form a negative form, you need to put the particle not after the verb to be: I am not happy.

The book is not good.

Present Simple — simple present

Present Simple means action in the present in the broadest sense of the word. It is used to refer to routine, repetitive, or persistent activities.

Education Present Simple

Affirmative sentences: I loveWe loveYou loveYou loveHe / she / it loves

they love

Interrogative sentences: Do I love? Do we love? Do you love? Do you love? Does he / she / it love?

Do they love?

Negative sentences: I do not love We do not love You do not love You do not love He / she / it does not love

They don’t love

The verb in the tense form Present Simple almost always coincides with its initial, that is, indicated in the dictionary, form without the to particle. Only in the 3rd person singular it is necessary to add the ending -s to it: I work — he works— If the verb ends in -s, -ss, -sh, -ch, -x, -o, then the ending is added to it — es: I wish — he wishes— The ending -es is added to the -y verbs, and the -y is replaced by -i-:

I try — he tries

In order to build an interrogative sentence, an auxiliary verb must be placed in front of the subject. The Present Simple tense is used without it, so in this case the auxiliary verb do (or does in 3 l. Units) is added: Do you this book?

Do you like this book?

Does he speak English? — He speaks English?

The auxiliary verb do / does is also used in negative sentences, but it is placed before the verb. The negative particle not is added after it. Do / does and not are often shortened to don’t and doesn’t, respectively:
I do not this book. — I don’t like this book.

Source: http://begin-english.ru/beginners/urok-3

Present simple tense in English

» English » Present simple

Present Simple is the most important of the Present group. It is with him that the study of English grammar begins. The name speaks for itself: Present Simple is the simplest in the sense of both use and construction.

At first glance, the use cases for this present tense are obvious. We take Present Simple when we want to talk about the events that are happening now. However, even here the language has its pitfalls, albeit small ones.

In addition to Present Simple, there are other variants of the present tense. In total, the English language has four such tenses: in addition to the above, there are also Present Continious, Perfect and Perfect Continious. The difference between simple and continuous forms is immediately clear.

In the first case, we are talking about a completed or one-step action, while in the second we are talking about an event that lasts for a certain period. Perfect, unlike Present Simple, generally reflects the past action, the results of which, however, have a connection with the present moment.

Remember this information, and it will be immediately clear to you which time to use in different situations.

Now that we understand what place the Present Simple occupies in the grid of times, it’s time to figure out in which specific situations it can and should be used.

The first option that comes to mind when talking about Simple is a reflection of regular actions, for example: Mary cleans her winter coat every spring — Marie cleans her winter coat every spring.

I sing in church choir every Sunday — I sing in church choir every Sunday.

We use the same Present Simple construction when we are talking about actual things, for example, about the status of a person, his profession, hobby, habit.
Jenny loves rock music that’s why she goes to rock festivals every summer — Jenny loves rock music, so she goes to rock festivals every summer.

It is important to note that for Present Simple it is completely unnecessary that the event be tied to a specific moment. So, you will use Present Simple when telling about where you live, what language you learn, and so on.

Present Simple is also your only option if you are talking about any known facts that are not in doubt: One year consists of twelve months — One year consists of twelve months.

Sixty minutes form one hour — Sixty minutes is one hour.

This is the present tense used in most stories and stories that describe current actions. That is, you will use Present Simple if you need to reflect the sequence of events in speech or writing.

Present Simple is also suitable if you, for example, will tell you how to get to a certain place, how to cook a certain dish, and so on.
Go straight ahead, then turn right, go further on and take first cross on the left.

There you find the metro station — Go straight, then turn right, go straight again and turn left at the first intersection. There will be a metro station ..

Now, pay attention to one little catch: the simple present is also used to refer to future events. But only in one specific case: if we are talking about a scheduled event that has an exact start time:
Train from Barcelona comes to Madrid at quarter to three — The train from Barcelona arrives in Madrid at quarter past three.

There is another unusual point in the English language, which is often indicated in grammar textbooks. Sometimes, Present Simple can also be used to reflect past actions. This is most often done in news headlines in newspapers, magazines or online publications. Strike starts in the airport of Paris this morning — A strike started at the Paris airport this morning.

Hurricane in California kills thousand people — Thousand people were killed in a hurricane in California.

There are times when journalists use the present tense in their articles to talk about what is about to happen in the near future. But this happens very rarely, and the adverb of the time is necessarily used.
Next month the king of Spain flies to Barcelona to speak with the president of Catalonia about independence — The king of Spain will fly to Barcelona next month to discuss independence with the president of Catalonia.

What markers help to recognize Present Simple?

In almost all temporal forms of the English language, there are some kind of markers, by which it is almost unmistakably guessed what time to use in a given situation.

A simple indefinite tense has a whole list of clues. They can even be divided into several groups. The first includes those that indicate a specific moment of action (today, this afternoon, everyday). To the second we can include more extensive adverbs (often, usually, seldom, always). In addition, in the case of Present Simple, they are often used from time to time, occasionally and others.

However, do not forget that the same markers can indicate other times, so you should not be equal to them only. For example, always can stand for both Present Simple and Present Perfect. Compare: Adam is always late for the meetings — Adam is always late for the meetings.

My grandfather has always loved old movies with Odry Hepbern — My grandfather always loved old films with Audrey Hepbern.

Therefore, to accurately determine the times, you need to operate with all possible rules at the same time.

Simple tense education in English

Present Simple education usually does not raise any questions even for those who are just starting to study English. 

To build an affirmative sentence, you only need the initial form of the verb and that’s it. The only thing you need to remember is that in the third person singular, the ending –s is added to it.

These rules also apply to irregular verbs, so you don’t have to memorize anything in addition to mastering Present Simple. I spend three hours to get from my apartment to office — I spend three hours to get from my apartment to the office.

He goes to cooking courses every Monday — He goes to cooking courses every Monday.

If you want to make a negative or interrogative sentence in Present Simple, the auxiliary verb do comes in handy. In the third person singular, it takes on the ending –s (does), and for a semantic verb this ending is removed. In a negative clause, do / does comes second (or after the subject), and the negative particle not is added to it. It can merge with the verb in the letter — don’t or doesn’t.

I don’t visit my grandparents very often and I feel ashamed because of that — I don’t visit my grandparents too often, and I feel very ashamed because of that.

Irene doesn’t want to move to her boyfriend to USA because she doesn’t want to leave her old parents behind — Irene doesn’t want to move to her boyfriend in the USA because she doesn’t want to leave her elderly parents.

If the sentence contains modal verbs (can or must), then the auxiliary verb in Present Simple is not required. Moreover, even in the third person singular, these verbs retain their initial form, to which a negative particle is added:

Chris can’t come to dinner tonight. His boss asked him to stay at work longer and finish up the project — Chris cannot come to dinner today. His boss asked him to stay late and complete the project.

I mustn’t call him today though I want to. It’s only two days from our first date and I feel awkward that he didn’t call yet. Maybe he doesn’t it as much as I do — I shouldn’t call him today, although I really want to. It’s only been two days since our date, and I feel uncomfortable that he hasn’t called yet. Maybe he didn’t like it as much as I did.

Now let’s look at the construction of interrogative sentences. There should be no difficulties with them either. According to the rules, all English questions are built according to the same scheme, regardless of whether you use Present Simple or any other form.

If for the Russian language it is enough to emphasize the question intonationally, then in this case it all depends on the word order. The auxiliary verb in the right tense is always put in the first place, then the subject comes, and then the semantic verb.

In the case of Present Simple, the same do or does is used. If the question is general, then this is enough.

If special, then an interrogative word (what, when, how and others) should be in front of the auxiliary verb.

Separately, it should be said about interrogative sentences to the subject (who / what) — this is the only case when an auxiliary verb is not required during formation, and a semantic one is put after the interrogative word.

Who comes to dinner with us tonight? — Who’s coming to dinner with us today?

Why does Jack call you? I thought you broke up months ago — Why is Jack calling you? I thought you broke up months ago.

When does Jimmy Fallon’s show start? I can’t find it in program — When does the Jimmy Fallon show start? I cannot find it in the program.

Does he want to come grab some ice-cream with us? He studies for too long. I’m sure he needs a break

— He wants to go for ice cream with us? He has been studying for so long. I’m sure he needs a break.

There is also a very common case when the auxiliary verb do / does is used in an affirmative sentence. In this case, it has no semantic meaning and is not translated separately.

But he seems to make the proposal even more affirmative, so to speak, and gives the listener or reader more confidence in the veracity of the information.

He does know Mary. I swear I saw them together on the party last night — He definitely knows Mary. I swear I saw them together at the party last night.

Source: https://capitalsc.ru/nastoyashhee-prostoe-vremya/

Present Simple rules: how time is formed and what is

If you want to talk about events, which happen usually and every day, and there is no emphasis on achieving a result, then it is necessary to use a simple present (Present Simple).

Let’s figure it out, what is Present Simple in theory? The key concepts for understanding this time are:

  • simplicity,
  • everyday life,
  • habit,
  • constancy.

Also, the need to use this time arises when an indication of generally accepted and well-known things (laws, phenomena), i.e. The Simple presentation in English indicates that the situation will not change.

Compare two phrases:

I have not been to London this year, what a pity that I will not be able to go!

Или:

I have not been to London since the beginning of the year, but I will still go.

In the first case, the situation is described exactly as required by Present Simple.

Seven Cases When You Need to Use Present Simple

Application of Present Simple in English:

  • An indication of an ordinary actionwhich is happening now. He doesn’t homework. — He doesn’t like doing homework.
  • Repetitive activities or habits… She runs on Saturday. — She runs in the morning.
  • Well-known phenomena or facts, fixed truths. Water freezes at 0 ° Celsius. — Water freezes at zero degrees Celsius.
  • Actions, which are part of the schedule (sometimes they will take place in the future). The next train to London leaves in 10 minutes. — The next train to London will be in 10 minutes.
  • A description of the state that is constant and does not change… I look my mother. — I look like my mom.
  • Statement of fact (long-term). My sister doesn’t work in a court of justice. “My sister doesn’t work in court.
  • In the headlines when retelling stories or an ordinal listing of actions… We analyze our clients may need, develop a new product, improve it and sell it. — We analyze what our clients may need, develop a new product, refine it and sell it.

Note! Present Simple rules tell us that for the speaker the moment of what is happening or the presence of a result is not important.

Simple present education rules

How does Present Simple form, what is the structure of the sentence to build? In this time Present Simple verbs are used in the first form of the verb table (V0) The verb (predicate) in the first form is placed after the subject, and the circumstances of the time are placed at the beginning of the sentence. At first glance, the grammar of Present Simple is very simple, but there are points that should not be forgotten:

  1. Present Simple tense can be formed using the linking verb to be.

  2. In the 3rd person singular, all verbs end with -s (-es, -ies).

  3. When forming general questions, the auxiliary verb to do is used without the particle to, and in the 3rd person singular it becomes does.

  4. When forming special questions, the interrogative pronoun is put in the first place, then the auxiliary verb to do (without the to particle) in the appropriate form.

  5. When creating special questions using the pronouns who or what, the auxiliary verb is not used, but the Present Simple rule states that the answer needs the appropriate form of the verb. The explanation can be illustrated by the following example: Does he work at the office? Yes, he does. — Does he work in the office? Yes it works.

  6. The negative form of the verb is formed by adding the particle not to the verb to do.

Thus, it is safe to say that the present can and should be studied with an English tutor. After all, this is the only way you will be sure of the correctness of your knowledge.

Words by which you can determine that we are talking about Present Simple

To make it easier to understand what time should be used, there are so-called «time markers», i.e. circumstances, indicating the possibility of using Present Simple time.

These include the following words: always (always), usually (usually), seldom (rarely), generally (actually, in general), every day (every day), this week (this week), this time (on this time), never, often.

Formation table of the main types of sentences Present Simple

1,2 person and plural 3rd person, singular
Narration (to be) I am always busy. — I am busy right now. He is always busy. — He is busy now.
Narrative They work at the office. — They work in the office. He works at the office. — He is working in the office.
General question Do they work at the office? — Do they work in the office? Does he work at the office? — He is working in the office?
Special question Where do they work every day? — Where do they work every day Where does he work every day? — Where does he work every day
Questions with who or what Who works at the office? — Who works in the office? Who works at the office? — Who works in the office?
Denial They don’t work at the office. — They don’t work in the office. He doesn’t work at the office. — He doesn’t work in the office
Negative imperative

Source: https://buki.com.ua/ru/news/present-simple-smyslove-znachennya-i-osoblyvosti-vzhyvannya/

Present simple — present simple tense in English

  1. Definition
  2. How is formed
  3. When used

Present simple (Present indefinite) in translation is the present simple (present indefinite) tense. Used in English to describe common, regularly repeated actions, circumstances that are currently relevant and well-known facts.

The topic of the verb to be in the Present simple has been taken out in a separate article.

2. Education Present simple

  1. Statement
  2. Question
  3. Denial

Conjugation table of a verb in an affirmative sentence

Singular Plural 1 person 2 person 3 person

i go we go
you go you go
He/she/it goes they go

For even more examples, see the Present simple example sentences article.

Assertion rules

The affirmative form of the simple present tense is formed very simply: after the subject there is a verb in the first form, while the auxiliary verb is not used.

As a subject, both pronouns (I, you, he, she, it, we, they) and nouns (boy, cars, snow) can be used.

The first form of the verb is the infinitive without the to particle. But in the 3rd person singular, that is, for pronouns he, she, it and nouns in the singular (boy, snow), the ending -s (-es, -ies) is also added to the verb.

For more information on the rules for writing these endings, see the article on endings -s, -es, -ies.

General scheme

S+V1

Where S (subject) is a subject (pronoun or noun)

V1 (verb) — verb in the first (initial) form

2.2. Interrogative sentences

  1. General questions
  2. The answer to the general question
  3. Special Issues

An example of conjugating a verb in an interrogative form

Singular Plural 1 person 2 person 3 person

Do I go? Do we go?
Do you go? Do you go?
Does he/she/it go? Do they go?

Additional examples of interrogative sentences.

Rules for building a question

To form an interrogative sentence, it is enough to add the auxiliary verb do (does) to the beginning of the sentence before the subject.

Does is used only in those sentences in which the ending -s was written in the affirmative of the verb, in other cases do is used. At the same time, the ending -s in the interrogative form is not used for the main verb; this s, as it were, «runs over» into do, «turning» it into does.

Formula of the question in the present indefinite time

Do (Does) + S + V1?

Where Do (Does) is an auxiliary verb

Source: https://infoeng.ru/grammar/present-simple/

By
Last updated:

April 23, 2022

To speak about your likes and dislikes, hobbies and beliefs, you need to know one very important thing: the present tense.

Even if you can speak in present tense and read present tense, you may need to learn more about the details.

Here, you will learn everything you need to know.

Contents

  • What Is the Present Tense?
    • Should You Use Simple or Continuous?
  • Telling Time with Present Tense
  • Talking About the Present
    • Generalizations and Beliefs
    • Hobbies and Habits
    • How Often Things Happen
    • What Is Happening Now
    • Scheduled Events
  • Summary of the Present Tense
    •  


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What Is the Present Tense?

In English, a tense is how your listener knows what time you’re talking about.

A tense tells you when an action occurred.

The word even comes from an old Latin word that means time: tempus.

We use different forms of verbs—or action words—whether we’re talking about something that happened already, something that is happening now or something that will happen in the future. Using the right tense is important since it can help prevent misunderstandings.

The present tense is used for actions that are happening now, or that include what is happening now.

You will find out more on how to perfect your present tense in this guide.

To do this, we are going to explore all the different ways the present tense can be used in English.

Should You Use Simple or Continuous?

There are three main forms of the present tense: simple, continuous and perfect.

General or repeated actions use the simple form.

Actions still in progress use the continuous form.

Actions that have been completed use the perfect form.

In this article we will only talk about the simple and continuous present tense.

You need to know how to use simple and continuous very well if you want to master present tense.

The simple present tense looks like this:

  • I/we/they [unchanged verb]
    For example: I speak, they walk, we wish.
  • He/she/it [verb with -s at the end]
    For example: He speaks, she walks.

The continuous present tense looks like this:

  • I am [verb with -ing at the end]
    For example: I am running, I am speaking.
  • He/she/it is [verb with -ing at the end]
    For example: He is eating, she is smiling.
  • We/they/you are [verb with -ing at the end]
    For example: We are waving, they are talking, you are driving.

As is true in many cases, there are exceptions (special cases that are different) to the rules.

There are some “irregular” verbs that look different in the present tense.

To have, to be, to go, and to do are the biggest examples of irregular verbs. You will need to learn the rest, of course, but don’t worry. First, focus on learning the most common verbs.

All of this gets easier as you practice.

To start practicing, we will explore the different ways you can use the present tense.

Telling Time with Present Tense

As we mentioned before, English tenses tell you when something happens.

But these tenses alone don’t provide much information. When used alone, without any extra words to help the description, a tense can only tell you that the action happened now, happened before or has not happened yet.

Many times, you want to get information that is more specific than that.

To do that, you can add special time-related words that answer these questions:

  1. How long does the action happen for?
  2. How often does the action take place?
  3. When does the action happen?

Some examples of these time telling words are:

  1. How long: All day, for hours, since this morning
  2. How often: Never, always, constantly
  3. When: Today, last year, at 5 in the afternoon

There are many more words that help describe the time of an action. Can you think of a few more?

Talking About the Present

The present tense is all about what is happening now.

But it is also the right tense to use if you want to share your beliefs, general ideas, hobbies, things that happen more than once and a few other ideas like these.

Below you’ll learn how to talk about some of these things.

Generalizations and Beliefs

Saying something is general means it is not specific.

You are being specific if you say “I will eat fish today at 5:00.”

You can be general by saying “I eat fish.”

The second sentence describes a generalization, or something that is a big, non-specific statement. You use the simple present tense for this kind of speaking.

This way, you can share ideas, beliefs that you have, general facts or thoughts about yourself or others.

If you continue describing your love of fish to someone, you can tell them “fried fish smells delicious,” or “fish is the best food in the world.”

Notice that what you say doesn’t have to be true, it is just an idea or a belief.

Hobbies and Habits

What do you like to do in your spare time? The simple present tense can help you answer this question.

“I play the piano, and sometimes I read bad romance novels before bed.” You can be as general or specific as you want with your hobbies. Do you practice the piano for three hours every day? Do you go to sleep with your nose in a book? You can use the present tense to tell someone about that.

Hobbies are things that you do for fun. Habits, on the other hand, are things that you do sometimes without choosing to, and sometimes to make your life better (or worse).

You can have good habits: “I always wake up early and exercise before I start the day.”

You can also have bad habits: “When I’m nervous, I bite my nails. When I’m very nervous I make bad fish jokes.”

Both hobbies and habits are general descriptions of things that someone does. They might not be happening right at this moment (you’re not playing the piano and biting your nails as you read this) but they are said in the present tense because they are actions that include the current time.

How Often Things Happen

You might have noticed by now that the present tense is used to describe things that keep happening. You can also use the present tense to explain how often these things happen.

For example, if you say “He always drinks coffee in the morning,” it is not the same as saying “He never drinks coffee in the morning.” In fact, these two sentences have opposite meanings.

There are actually two time-related phrases in these sentences: (1) the words “always” and “never” explain how often your friend drinks coffee, and (2) the words “in the morning” explain when exactly this drinking happens (or doesn’t happen).

When you’re describing the frequency of an action (how often something happens), you can be very specific.

For example: “Every evening at 7:00 I study English for two hours.” This sentence tells when (7:00 in the evening), how often (every evening) and for how long (two hours) you study English.

Or you can be very general:

“Sometimes I study English.” This sentence only shows how often you study (sometimes).

What Is Happening Now

What are you doing right now? Maybe you are reading this article, drinking some tea and listening to some good music.

Anything that is happening right at this moment can be expressed with the continuous present tense.

Think of this as the way to express an action that hasn’t ended yet.

For example: “I am still waiting for this long winter to end.” If the winter was already over, this sentence would not be in the present tense! It would be in the past tense.

Scheduled Events

We keep saying that the present is something that happens now. However, you can also use it for scheduled events.

If your friend is coming to visit, you might say: “Annie’s train leaves New York today. She arrives here tomorrow at five.”

You use the present tense here because some preparation for this event has already happened. The simple present tense is usually used for events that are on a timetable or schedule or are happening very soon.

You can use the continuous present tense to say the same thing: “Annie’s train is leaving New York today. She is arriving here tomorrow at five.”

There is no difference between the two tenses in this case, so use whichever tense you’re more comfortable with!

Summary of the Present Tense

You should now have a good idea of when to use the present tense. Here’s a summary of what you learned in this article:

  • Use the simple present tense to talk about…
    • Generalizations / beliefs
    • Hobbies / habits
    • Frequency of an action
  • Use the continuous present tense to talk about…
    • Actions happening right now
  • Use either tense to talk about…
    • Actions happening in the near future
    • Scheduled events
  • Use time words with present tense verbs to describe…
    • When an action happens
    • How often it happens
    • How long it happens for

How well did you understand how to use the present tense?

Now that you’ve read this guide, you can try testing yourself.

You can find some present tense exercises on the English Page website, or choose from a large selection of exercises on this German English-learning website.

But don’t just memorize grammar rules and do practice exercises to master the present tense: make sure you have lots of authentic English audio and video to help you listen to the English present tense in context. 

When you read English books, listen to English podcasts and music, or watch English videos, look carefully for the present tense. Study why or how certain phrases use the present tense, paying attention to the conjugated verbs and the words that follow it.

Some language learning programs can also show when the present tense is expected to be used. FluentU, for example, uses authentic English videos so that you can learn vocabulary and sentence structure in context. Each video has interactive subtitles that provide word definitions and grammar details, so you can easily see and study instances of the present tense.

Now go out there and try your new skills in the real world!


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There are three main verb tenses in English – the past, the present and the future – which each have various forms and uses. Today, we’re going to explore the four different aspects of the present tense: the present simple, the present continuous, the present perfect and the present perfect continuous.

We’ll look at how these tenses are structured, when exactly to use them – and of course, include some activities for you to practise them at home.

Let’s get started!

The Present Tenses

These are the four present tenses in English and how they are used in a sentence:

The Present Tenses | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

1.Present Simple

The present simple is usually the first tense English students learn. You can use it to talk about yourself and other people – as well as things that occur habitually in the present.

Form

In the present simple, the base form of the verb is the same for every subject pronoun, except the third person, where you add an “s” to the end of the verb.

Let’s take a look at the verb “eat”:

Present Simple | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

Uses & Examples

  • HabitsI sometimes go to the gym. I never eat fish.
  • General TruthsLondon is the capital of England.
  • Repeated Actions of EventsWe drive to work every day.
  • Fixed Arrangements/ TimetablesThe bus leaves at 6:30pm.
  • Feelings/Opinions/BeliefsI love sandwiches. I hope to see you soon.
  • InstructionsFirst put the water in the pot, then bring to a boil.

 

Present Simple Activity

Now, it’s your turn! Take a look at this present simple activity all about the daily routine of the Queen. As you watch the video, try to think of the correct answer, then wait a few seconds to find out what it is.

*Remember to use third person “s.”

 

2. Present Continuous

Now you can use the present simple, it is time to look at the present continuous.

Form

Use the verb to be + base verb + ing (sometimes called the gerund or present participle).

Here’s an example using the word “sleep”.

Present Continuous | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

Uses & Examples

  • Actions happening in the momentWe are learning grammar. Look! That man is reading a book.
  • Fixed arrangements for the futureI’m getting married in July.
  • Temporary eventsHe’s living in Wales for the moment.
  • To complain, or emphasize continuous behaviour with words like ‘always’, ‘forever’ and ‘constantly’You are always leaving your socks on the floor!

 

Stative Verbs

There are some verbs we cannot use in the continuous tense. These are called stative verbs. Stative verbs refer to states, feelings, or senses rather than actions. In these cases, we use the present simple instead. Here are some examples of stative verbs:

Stative Verbs | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

Present Continuous Activity

Take a look at this picture below. Can you describe what is happening using the present continuous? We’ll post an answer key at the end of this blogpost.

*Remember if it’s a stative verb to use present simple instead.

Present Continuous - Describe the picture | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

3. Present Perfect Simple

The present perfect simple is used to connect the past to the present. The time of the action is often unspecified, and the focus is more on the result rather than the action. Let’s look at the form:

Form

Use the auxiliary verb have + the past participle of the main verb.

The past participle of regular verbs end in -ed, for verbs like walked, played, looked and watched. But there are lots of irregular verbs – for example, been (be), eaten (eat), made (make), gone (go), got (get), given (give), read (read), said (say), taken (take).

Note that in 3rd person, we use “has” instead of “have”.

Present Perfect Simple | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

Uses & Examples

  • Actions that start in the past and continue to the presentI’ve lived here for 3 years.
  • Life experiences, at an unspecified time in the pastI’ve swum with dolphins.
  • Repeated action in an unspecified time periodI’ve visited the Eiffel Tower three times.
  • Unfinished time (today, this week, this month, this year)I’ve ridden my bicycle today.
  • A finished action with a present resultI’ve lost my keys (so I can’t open the door).
  • Recent past with the words ‘just’, ‘recently’, ‘already’ and ‘yet’I’ve just spoken to Mark on the phone.

 

However, keep in mind that when we give more details in a sentence – and explain things like when, who, where, who, and why – we change the tense we use to the past simple.

Here is an example:

-Have you ever been to Scotland?

-Yes I went there for a week when I was ten years old.

Present Perfect Simple Activity

Look at the activity below. First complete each gap with an appropriate past participle. Then answer the questions in the present perfect simple.

Present Perfect Simple Activity | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

4. Present Perfect Continuous

The present perfect continuous is the last of the present tenses. It is used to talk about an action that started in the past but perhaps has still not finished in the present. The focus is on the process as well as the result. The process may be still going, or may have recently finished.

Form

Use the auxiliary verb have/has + been + base verb + ing to form the present perfect continuous. Let’s take a look at the verb “read”:

Present Perfect Continuous | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

Note that the verbs “live” and “work” can be used with either present perfect simple, or present perfect continuous without changing the meaning.

Also note you cannot use stative verbs with continuous tenses. For these, we use the present perfect simple.

Uses & Examples

  • Actions that started in the past and continue in the presentI’ve been watching Game of Thrones.
  • To emphasise the duration or ’how long’ (with for and since)Henry has been playing the violin since he was eight.
  • Recently finished actions, with present resultsWhy have you been crying? (there are tears in her eyes). It’s been raining (the ground is wet).

 

Present Perfect Continuous Activity

Answer the questions below about yourself in full sentences. Then compare your answers with the examples at the end of this blogpost.

Present Perfect Continuous Activity | 4 Present Tenses and When to Use Them | Oxford House Barcelona

Suggested Answers

Present Continuous Activity

There is a room full of people. It looks like an art gallery. Most of the people are looking at the phones or are taking a picture of something. The woman in the middle is wearing a hat. Lots of people are listening to audio guides. One woman is showing her friend her picture on her phone.

Present Perfect Simple Activity

I have/have never eaten sushi.

I have/have never broken a bone.

I have/have never sung karaoke.

I have/have never been scuba diving.

I have/have never gone camping.

I have/have never played tennis.

Present Perfect Continuous Activity

I have been living in Barcelona for 15 years/all my life/since I was a child.

I have been learning English for 10 years/since I was 10 years old.

I’ve been playing football for 2 years now/all my life.

I’ve been reading this blogpost for 5 minutes/ 10 minutes/1 hour.

Glossary for Language Learners

Find the following words in the article and then write down any new ones you didn’t know.

Daily routine (n): your habitual, normal everyday routine.

Unspecified (adj) : not stated clearly or exactly.

Perhaps (adv): maybe.

Key

n = noun

adj = adjective

adv = adverb

Study English at Oxford House Barcelona

Interested in taking an English course at Oxford House Barcelona? Check all the different English classes we can offer you, or contact us for more information.

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  • Is the word this an adjective or pronoun
  • Is the word this a demonstrative pronoun
  • Is the word thinking a verb
  • Is the word thing a pronoun
  • Is the word they singular or plural