Spoken English Part 4

Present Simple

We use the present simple to talk about actions we see as long term or permanent. It is a very common and very important tense.

Here, we are talking about regular actions or events.
. They drive to the office every day.
. She doesn't come here very often.
. The news usually starts at 6.00 every evening.
. Do you usually have bacon and eggs for breakfast?

Here, we are talking about facts.
. We have two children.
. Water freezes at 0° C or 32° F.
. What does this expression mean?
. The Thames flows through London.

Here, we are talking about future facts, usually found in a timetable or a chart.
. Christmas Day falls on a Monday this year.
. The plane leaves at 5.00 tomorrow morning.
. Ramadan doesn't start for another 3 weeks.
. Does the class begin at 10 or 11 this week?

Here, we are talking about our thoughts and feelings at the time of speaking. Although these feelings can be short-term, we use the present simple and not the present continuous.
. They don't ever agree with us.
. I think you are right.
. She doesn't want you to do it.
. Do you understand what I am trying to say.