We use Present Simpleif:
1 things happen repeatedly
What do they usually read at weekends?
(You can’t say ‘What are they usually reading?’ in this context because the action happens regularly
Jane does her homework every day.
2 things happen in general
Most people learn to swim when they are children.
It means that this situation is typical and it happens to most people. This action doesn’t refer to the moment of speaking.
3 the action is a scientific fact
Every day the population of the world increases by 200,000 people.
4 the situation is permanent
You work hard most of the time.I’m living with my friends until I find a place of my own.
5 the situation happens according to the programme or timetable
The film begins at 4.30.
We use Present continuous for:
1 actions happening at the time of speaking:
Please don’t switch on the TV. I’m reading.
(You can’t say ‘I read’ in this context because the action is happening now)
‘Where’s Jane?’ ‘She’s doing her English homework.’
2 actions not necessarily happening at the time of speaking.
I’m learning to swim. My father is teaching me.
It means that he is not learning to swim at the time of speaking. It means that he is in the middle of doing it.
3 changing or developing situations (to show the dynamics)
The population of the world is increasing very fast.
4 temporary situations
You’re working hard today.I live with my parents. I have lived with them all my life.
5 fixed arrangements in the near future
I’m flying to London next Monday.
6 situations to express annoyance or criticism (with always)
She is always complaining.
Time expressions
Always, usually, often, sometimes, hardly ever, occasionally, from time to time, seldom, rarely, never.
He often goes to the theatre. (adverb is placed before the main verb)
He is often late. (adverb is placed after the verb to be)
Every day/week/month/ yearonce a year/ twice a week/three times a day
Now, at the moment, at present, currently, these days
I’m working hard these days.
Tonight, tomorrow, next week/month/Monday
I’m going to the cinema tonight.
studopedia.org - Студопедия.Орг - 2014-2024 год. Студопедия не является автором материалов, которые размещены. Но предоставляет возможность бесплатного использования(0.007 с)...
