Expressing future time

Using the present continuous

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Using the present continuous for plans

Called the present progressive in some grammar books and textbooks, the present continuous is used (usually with a definite time expression referring to the near future) to state firm plans that are had for the future. However, it is considerably less common than the other main ways of referring to the future :

Unfortunately Chris is moving to Sydney next week, so he won't be able to ride him in Cairns. (Bank of English)

The present continuous does not carry the same degree of certainty as the present simple. So, in less formal contexts such as telephone calls, it is more likely that speakers will use the present continuous rather than other options such as the present simple tense or will:

On Monday I'm having a little celebration party with a few of my friends.
(Bank of English)

Compare this with a much more formal context (also spoken) where the present simple is chosen by the speaker:

At this present stage that's a little bit difficult for me to answer, because I know they have a Committee Meeting next week and I don't really want to get involved in a public slanging match. (Bank of English)

Here the use of the present simple have collocates more easily with Committee Meeting with its connotation of a formal event fixed well in advance and certain to happen.

If you would like to see a teaching activity for Secondary 1 - 2 in which mime is used to reinforce the meaning of the present continuous, click on MIMING YOUR PLANS.

If you would like to see a teaching activity for Secondary 3 which gives students controlled practice in using the present continuous to make arrangements, click on MAKING A DATE.

Using the present continuous for plans
Restrictions on using the present continuous