08/05/2024
author:
Olivera Matović

Simplify Your Business English: The Present Continuous Tense

In business, where every conversation and message can affect your success, knowing how to use English grammar tenses is very important. For example, the Present Continuous tense is one you’ll often need.

Specifically, the Present Continuous is great for talking about actions happening now, future plans, or ongoing events. As a result, this guide will help you understand and use this tense, so you can express yourself clearly and confidently in your daily work.

In addition, if you are uncertain about your current knowledge, you can test your English level for free, with this short English for Success test. Furthermore, if you feel the need to strengthen or refresh your knowledge, keep in mind that these English for Success workbooks serve as an excellent resource.

What is the Present Continuous Tense?

The Present Continuous, also known as the Present Progressive tense, is used to describe:

  • Actions happening at the moment of speaking.
  • Temporary actions.
  • Future plans or arrangements.
  • Situations that are gradually changing.

Forming the Present Continuous Tense

The Present Continuous tense is formed by using the Present Tense of the verb to be (am, is, are). After that, you add the -ing form of the main verb, and finally, include the object to complete the sentence.

present continuous - english for success

Examples:

  • I am working in London.
  • You are working in London.
  • He/She/It is working in London.
  • We are working in London.
  • You are working in London.
  • They are working in London.

Negative Sentences in Present Continuous Tense

To form a negative sentence in the Present Continuous, you simply add -not right after the auxiliary verb (am, is, are). For example, this step makes it easy to express actions that are not happening.

Examples:

  • I am not working in London.
  • You are not working in London.
  • He/She/It is not working in London.
  • We are not working in London.
  • You are not working in London.
  • They are not working in London.

Questions

To form questions in the Present Continuous, you simply start with the correct form of “to be” (am, is, are), followed by the subject, and then add the -ing form of the main verb. This way, the question becomes clear and easy to understand.

Examples:

  • Am I working in London?
  • Are you working in London?
  • Is he/she/it working in London?
  • Are we working in London??
  • Are you working in London?
  • Are they working in London?

Spelling Rules in Present Continuous Tense

The spelling rules for the Present Continuous are, thankfully, quite straightforward. First, let’s take a closer look at how they work. Then, follow these easy-to-understand steps to apply them with confidence.

For most verbs:

Add -ing to the base form of the verb.

Example:

  • She is working on a new project.

For verbs ending in -e:

Drop the -e before adding -ing.

Example:

  • He is writing (write becomes writing) an email to his client.

For one-syllable verbs, that end with consonant + vowel + consonant pattern:

Double the last consonant and then add -ing

Example:

  • He’s swimming (swim becomes swimming) in the sea.

For verbs ending in a consonant + vowel + consonant pattern, with the final syllable being stressed:

Double the final consonant before adding -ing if the stress is on the final syllable.

Example:

  • I am sitting (sit becomes sitting) at my desk, waiting for the meeting to start.

For verbs ending in -ie:

Change the -ie to -y before adding -ing.

Example:

  • She is lying (lie becomes lying) about her role in the project.

Key Uses of the Present Continuous Tense

Understanding the Present Continuous is essential for clear and effective communication in English. To begin with, let’s explore its key uses step by step:

present continuous tense in business English/poslovni engleski

Actions Happening Now:

Example:

  • I am writing an email to a client.

Temporary Situations:

Example:

  • She is staying at a hotel while her house is being renovated.

Future Plans and Arrangements:

Example:

  • We are meeting with investors next Monday.

Annoying or Irritating Habits:

Example:

  • He is always interrupting me during meetings.

Temporary Habits:

Example:

  • She’s swimming a lot these days.

Key Uses of the Present Continuous Tense in Business English

Describing Current Projects and Tasks

To begin with, the Present Continuous is ideal for discussing what you or your team are currently working on. It emphasizes ongoing efforts and dedication to specific tasks.

Example:

  • We are implementing a new strategy to increase market share.

Indicating Temporary Actions or Changes

Additionally, you can use the Present Continuous to describe temporary situations or changes within your company, projects, or industry. This highlights that the action is not permanent.

Example:

  • Our company is currently expanding into Asian markets.

Discussing Future Arrangements

Moreover, the Present Continuous is often used to discuss plans or arrangements for the near future, such as meetings, calls, or business trips.

Example:

  • I am meeting with potential clients next Thursday.

Highlighting Trends

Finally, in presentations or reports, the Present Continuous is effective for describing current trends or changes happening in real-time.

Example:

  • The tech industry is rapidly evolving.

Summing Up the Present Continuous Tense

The Present Continuous might just be the secret ingredient to making your business English clearer and more straightforward. To put it simply, it’s like narrating a story as it happens, which can make your communication more engaging and informative in the professional world. In other words, it helps you describe ongoing actions in a way that grabs attention and keeps things clear.

Therefore, take the time to explore this tense, practice using it, and use our English for Success workbooks and see how it transforms your daily communication. Most importantly, remember that effective communication isn’t about sounding like a textbook – it’s about being clear and confident. So, start small, practice regularly, and let the Present Continuous work wonders in your business conversations.