TIMETABLES | schedule | we have AGREED to do, PLANNED and ARRANGED | officially ORGANIZED
 |
| CC-BY-SA Nina Paley |
1. We use the present simple to talk about something that has been officially organized, for example on a timetable or a schedule:
- The hotel will provide a packed lunch because the bus leaves at 7.30 and doesn't return until the evening.
- What date do the classes start next term?
- The summer term starts on April 10th.
- What time does the bus arrive in Seattle?
- What time does the film start?
2. We use the present continuous to talk about something in the future we have agreed to do:
- Tim and I are going to the theatre tonight, then we're having dinner at White's.
3. We use the present continuous to show our plans or THE WEEKEND:
- I'm playing tennis with Rob on Saturday.
- Are you doing anything at the weekend?
 |
| derivative of Nina Paley |
4. We use the present continuous to talk about personal arrangements and fixed plans, especially when the time and place have been decided.
- We're going to Mexico next summer.
- I'm seeing Larry on Saturday.
- What are we having for dinner?
We often use the PRESENT CONTINUOUS with verbs of movement, to talk about actions which are just starting.
- Are you coming to the pub?
- I'm just popping out to the post office. Back in a minute!
- Get your coat on! I'm taking you down to the doctor!
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOING TO & THE PRESENT CONTINUOUS
- Are you doing anything at the weekend? (Talking about arrangements - more natural than: Are you going to do anything at the weekend?)
- Are you going to do anything about that anonymous letter? (Pressing to know what has been decided /more natural than: Are you doing anything about...)
- Who's cooking lunch? (Asking about what has been arranged)
- I'm seeing Phil tonight. (It's not just my plan. I've talked to him about it, it's an arrangement)
- I'm really going to tell him what I think of him! (=my intention is important here, not: I'm telling him what I think of him!)
