2. Function
1. Present continuous for future arrangements
The present continuous is used to talk about arrangements for events at a time later than now.
There is a suggestion that more than one person is aware of the event, and that some preparation has already happened.
- I'm meeting Jim at the airport = and both Jim and I have discussed this.
- I am leaving tomorrow. = and I've already bought my train ticket.
- We're having a staff meeting next Monday = and all members of staff have been told about it.
- I'm spending Christmas and New Year with my Mum and Dad.
BE CAREFUL! The
simple present is used when a future event is part of a programme or time-table. Notice the difference between:
- a. We're having a staff meeting next Monday.
- b. We have a staff meeting next Monday.(= we have a meeting every Monday, it's on the time-table.)
2. Present continuous for things which you are about to start doing
English speakers often use the present continuous tense to talk about things they are about to start doing. This is especially common with verbs of movement, such as go, come, leave etc.
- I'm going to bed now - goodnight.
- Will you help me finish the housework? - Sorry, I can't: I'm leaving for work now.