The Present Simple

1. Permanent truths and facts

We use the present simple to talk about permanent truths and facts.

Water boils at 100 degrees.

Cats have four legs.

The sun rises on the east

2. Situations in the present

We use the present simple to talk about situations in the present.

I work in a bank.

Peter lives in London.

She likes cats.

3. Regular, repeated activity

We use the present simple to talk about a regular, repeated activity.

I get up at 7am.

She works from 9am to 5pm.

We use adverbs to say how often we do things:

4. Referring to the future

We use the present simple to refer to the future, especially to talk about timetables.

The plane arrives at 10 am.

The concert starts at 9pm.

5. Clauses of time and condition

We use the present simple in clauses of time and conditions referring to a point in the future.

It is used after: when, if, unless, before, after, until, as soon as, whenever, etc.

I will give him the book when I see him.

If it rains, we will say at home.

As soon as we arrive home, I will make dinner.

The bus leaves at 4.15pm.

6. Observations and declarations

We use the present simple to talk about observations and declarations.

We use state verbs to express sentiments, states and thoughts (not activities).

I hope he arrives on time.

Jonathan likes chocolate.

I agree with you.

7. Instructions

We can use the present simple to give instructions.

You heat the oil and fry the meat.

You turn left at the second street.

You mix the flour with the sugar.

8. Sports commentaries, news headlines

We use the present simple in sports commentaries and newspaper headlines.

Ronaldo passes the ball to Beckham.

And Smith takes the ball and hands it to Frank.

Ford dismisses 500 workers.