Using the present simple and continuous
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Using the present simple tense | page 2 of 6 |
Present time use: With verbs such as know, like, be and have
In clauses representing our mental reactions to the world (containing verbs such as know, see, like and want) as well as in clauses representing being and having (containing verbs such as be, seem, look like, represent, have, contain, and comprise), the present simple tense is the normal tense for referring to the present situation. Note that the present situation may extend into the past and future as well.
He is clever and knows how to manage his time. (SCMP 9/7/92)
This statement refers to a time that includes, but is not limited to, the moment of speaking. Here are some further examples:
I believe also that the family is the cornerstone of society. (Bank of English)
I realise obviously that there are difficulties. (Bank of English)
What do you love and what do you hate? (Bank of English)
It looks like a bowl, or a stool of some kind. (Bank of English)
The fleet comprises 100 10-year-old double decker buses bought from London Transport. (SCMP 5/6/92)
Sources in Beijing said Mr Zhao, who lives in a guarded compound in the heart of the capital, had been allowed to see more visitors since late last year.
(SCMP 2/4/94)
For further information about verbs representing our mental
reactions to the world, see 
Representing thinking, perceiving, liking and desiring: Overview.
For further information about verbs representing being and
having, see Representing being and having: Overview.
If you would like to see a teaching activity for Secondary 1 - 2 which gives students
practice in the present simple tense to describe certain characteristics, click on 
MONSTERS.
Introduction
Present time use: With verbs such as know, like, be and have
