Skip to main content

Simple Present Tense vs. Progressive Present Tense

 

Simple Present Tense


We use the simple present tense when things regularly happens, daily routines, or facts. 

For example:
  • I wash clothes.
  • He brushes his teeth.
  • She exercises a lot.
Also, for things that are true in the present time period.

For example:
  • She's my girlfriend.
  • We study together.
  • Donny is the best employee of this month.

Progressive Present Tense


We use the progressive present tense when something is happening at that moment.

For example:
  • They're running to the store.
  • He's finishing his homework.
  • We're walking to school .

Present vs. Present Progressive Tense


The difference between the two is that the present tense is used for permanent situations and the present progressive tense is used for temporary situations.

For example:
  • It's raining right now. (Temporary)
  • Humans need food to live. (Permanent)