We use the present simple to talk about actions we see as long term or permanent. It is a very common and very important tense.
Here, we are talking about regular actions or events.
- They drive to the office every day.
- She doesn't come here very often.
- The news usually starts at 6.00 every evening.
- Do you usually have bacon and eggs for breakfast?
Here, we are talking about facts.
- We have two children.
- Water freezes at 0° C or 32° F.
- What does this expression mean?
- The Thames flows through London.
Here, we are talking about future facts, usually found in a timetable or a chart.
- Christmas Day falls on a Monday this year.
- The plane leaves at 5.00 tomorrow morning.
- Ramadan doesn't start for another 3 weeks.
- Does the class begin at 10 or 11 this week?
Here, we are talking about our thoughts and feelings at the time of speaking. Although these feelings can be short-term, we use the present simple and not the present continuous.
- They don't ever agree with us.
- I think you are right.
- She doesn't want you to do it.
- Do you understand what I am trying to say.
exercise 1
exercise 2