Present Simple vs. Present Progressive

Question

When do we use Present Simple, and when do we use Present Progressive/Continuous? Are they interchangeable?

Answer 1

At high levels, there is some nuance to this, but the basics are that present simple is used to describe repeated or habitual actions while present progressive is used to describe actions that are currently occurring.

For example:

I take piano lessons every week.

I am taking Spanish lessons before my trip.

In the first case, the piano lessons occur regularly, and presumably over a long period of time. In the second example, the Spanish lessons are temporary and will only ever occur for a fixed period of time.

This is the most basic difference, and it will get you a long way. However, if you're looking for more detail, there are a few other situations where this makes a difference. Each can be used to describe future plans, but in slightly different ways. In this case, present simple is used for future events that are attached to a specific time, while present continuous is used for definite plans with or without a specific time.

Ex: Her train arrives at 8 o'clock. I turn thirty in November.

I am seeing a movie tomorrow night. I am meeting a friend for coffee.

Another common usage for present continuous is to describe a slowly changing situation or condition.

Ex: My kittens are growing bigger every day.

His health is improving.

Answer 2

Present simple refers to common habits/ general truths. It requires conditions of time. You do not need a word that represents time, but it must be clear that the statement will not change.

Examples- I swim everyday. She works out daily.

Often present continuous is used when the action is not complete and to signify busyness. It can also describe interests and if that is the case, it actually becomes a noun.

Examples-

I am eating (I am not done yet). This is correct, not- ¨I eat¨ (unless you add condition).

If you´re busy, you might say- I can talk right now, I am working out.

Noun example- I like eating. I enjoy working out. Note: You can also say dislike, don´t like.