Present Continuous
Form
Subject + to be (Present Simple) + Gerund + Object
For most verbs we add -ing to the infinitive to make the gerund. See spelling exceptions below for more information.
Function
We use the Present Continuous to talk about what is happening now:
Whatever is happening at the moment of speaking can be talked about in the Present Continuous . This may have started before the moment of speaking and may well continue after the moment of speaking.
The present continuous is the tense of NOW
Why are you talking to him now?
The ship is leaving the harbour
I am thinking about it, I cannot decide now
NOTE: As the present continuous uses to be as an auxiliary verb it is possible to use contractions in both positive and negative forms.
Contractions are common in spoken English but in formal and written English it is recommended to use full structures.
Exceptions
Apart from the spelling exceptions below verbs in the gerund form are regular
There are some differences in spelling between UK and American English
Spelling notes
Related Topics
Present Continuous further functions here
Temporary states/Repeated actions/Change/Criticism of consistent behaviour
Present Simple form and function here
Facts/Opinions/Habitual Actions. Exceptions & Spelling notes
Present Simple further functions here
Instructions & Directions/Stories & Commentaries/Performative utternaces/Newspaper Headlines
Present Simple or Present Continuous here
Permananent or Temporary states/Stative or Dynamic verbs
