We use both the present simple and the present continuous to talk about the present. The present simple is for habits and regular actions, while the present continuous describes things happening right now.
Present Simple: Used for permanent situations or things that last a while.
- Example: Julie lives in Paris.
Present Continuous: Used for situations we consider temporary.
- Example: Julie is living in Paris at the moment.
For future events that are part of a timetable, we typically use the present simple:
- Example: My plane leaves at eight.
We also use the present simple to talk about the future after words like ‘when’:
- Example: I’ll call you when I get home.
For definite future plans, we use the present continuous:
- Example: I’m meeting James tomorrow.
(Note: When using stative verbs, we apply the present simple for all these uses.)
