蜜芽传媒

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Learning English - The Flatmates

Language Point

Archive Language Point 13
Present forms

We can use the present simple to talk about habits (things that we do regularly), facts (things that are always true) or states (facts that are true for a long time).

We can use the present continuous to talk about an activity that's happening now, (or around now) or to talk about planned future arrangements.

Habits:
We give Helen the rent every month.
She sends the cheque to the landlord.

Facts:
The sun rises in the east.
Brasilia is the capital of Brazil.

States:
They live in a flat together.
Alice doesn't work in a hospital.


I/You/We/They He/She/It	go to the office by bike. likes swimming.

Happening now:
I'm just putting the kettle on.
They're watching TV.

Planned future arrangements:
Helen's studying later tonight.
I'm playing football with my friends on Saturday.


I You/We/They He/She/It	Verb to be + am are is	verb + ing waiting for you studying chatting
Note: In spoken English we usually shorten "I am" to "I'm" , "You are" to "You're" etc.

To spill the beans (idiom):
To tell a secret

Whoa, easy tiger! (informal):
Take it easy, calm down.

This'll put a smile on your face:
This will make you happy.

No idea (informal, short for "I have no idea"):
I don't know.

Anyone fancy a cuppa? (informal, short for "Does anyone fancy a cup of tea?"):
Would anyone like a cup of tea?