In the wrong context such a direct comparison will bring mistakes вЂ“ especially when using the continuous tenses for states. This is a general example to illustrate the differences. (Now, but temporarily, started in the past.) The continuous tenses emphasise states that are temporary. (For some time, up to вЂ“ and including вЂ“ now.)Дirectly compared, when a choice between the present tenses is possible for a state verb (remember this is not always possible), the present perfect suggests completion, or a state that will be completed in the present, while the present simple shows a state that is true now.

The present perfect continuous tells us the state is temporary and ongoing, but emphasises that it started in the past (also beware, this is not always appropriate). The present continuous tells us that the state is temporary and ongoing (and beware, this use is often grammatically questionable). The present simple tells us that the state is true now. The present perfect is used for states when we want to emphasise the duration of the state, for an action or event that started in the past. But what happens when we use different present tenses for states? As demonstrating states can present an irregular pattern when choosing a correct tense, the following notes will help you decide which present tense is most appropriate in different situations.ДЇirstly, as covered with the past tenses, remember that state verbs, for emotions, conditions, possession and senses, such as be, have, feel, seem, look, and belong, should be shown using the simple tenses, even when a continuous tense may seem appropriate (for instance with a temporary or ongoing action). Following from my tips on the past simple and state verbs, and its comparison with the past continuous (based on extracts from The English Tenses Practical Grammar Guide), this article will explain how the present tense works with states.

Present simple states sentences