The present progressive expresses an action in progress. Unlike the simple present (which deals with whatever the subject does at any given time), the present progressive states wat the subject is doing right now. It is a "compound verb" (it needs an auxiliary verb), and the formula is as follows:
We also use the present progressive to refer to actions that are taking place in the present, as in:
- Este mes estoy estudiando español. (This month I am studying Spanish.)
- ¿Qué estás haciendo esta semana? (What are you doing this week?)
Spanish speakers do not use the present progressive as frequently as in English. We usually use the present tense to describe an action taking place at the moment. Be aware that the English equivalent of a Spanish present is often a progressive form:
- Los chicos juegan en el parque. (The kids are playing in the park)
- Ahora voy a Barcelona. (Now I am going to Barcelona.)
Click here to practice the present tense and many other
aspects of Spanish grammar.
