Pres. continuous for processes?

Question

Hello, there is something that is bothering me/bothers me. This. We could say that Present Simple is better, when we talk about sth characteristic of us or sth that repeats. Well, this is me, this is the knowledge I do not possess. Therefore, can I say that it bothers me as well as "it is bothering me" (at this point of life)?
Consequently, there are sentences like "When we talk about foreigners, we should always do this and that/ when we are talking about foreigners, we should do this and that" Can both sentences be correct? The first one seems more logical to me, although the second one could also be true, when we think about a specific situation maybe? If you could clarify how this works, I woud be grateful.

Cheers,
Jan

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

If you separate the meanings very strictly, you have this:

The non-continuous form is for situations that are generally true.
The continuous form is for situations that apply to the current situation.

It bothers me (every time it happens. I am just the kind of person who is always bothered by this sort of thing.)
It is bothering me (at this moment, as I think about it. This is because of a recent problem. It might not bother me next week when the problem is solved.)

When we talk about foreigners— suggests a general case
When we are talking about foreigners— suggests specific situations
____________

Now here's where the problem comes up. You can use the non-continuous form with the continuous meaning and the continuous form with the non-continuous meaning, depending on the properties of the specific verb.

I'm sorry to say that this doesn't clarify much of anything, so I have to fall back on the advice to imitate the speech and writing of native speakers.

CJ

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you a lot, CJ.
Your answer confirmed my hunch and, well, made me realize that sometimes I will have to rely on a hunch with this grammar usage

I have a friend who keeps overusing the continous form and I wanted to give him some clear advice, I will probably try to use the "applies always" vs "applies to a particular situation, when we focus on the act more" explanation.

Thank you and have a nice day!
Lukasz

29

Pres. continuous for processes?

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬