Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
present simple

present simple

2.7
A verb tense for actions and facts that happen often and are true now
  • noun
  • /ˈprɛzənt ˈsɪmpl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : tiempo presente simple
  • You use the present simple for things like routines and general truths.

Examples

  • In the present simple, the verb doesn't change for all subjects except the third person singular.

  • In English, the present simple is typically used to state facts or general truths.

  • Many English learners find the present simple tense easier to use than other forms.

  • The present simple tense is easy to learn.

  • I often use the present simple in my writing.

  • The present simple tense is often used to describe daily habits and routines.

  • You can form the present simple by using the base form of the verb for all subjects except for the singular 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Synonyms

simple present
vspresent simple
  • Specialized
2.3

A verb tense that talks about regular actions, facts, and situations that are true now

has identical meaning but uses the alternate word order in its name

Surface Forms

present simple singular
present simples plural

Morphology

present + simple

The components 'present' (time reference) and 'simple' (basic/unmarked form) give a clear hint that this is a basic present tense, and many languages use a similar label, so learners can often infer it refers to the straightforward present tense for habits/facts. However, 'simple' is a technical grammatical label (not just 'easy'), and the precise functions (habitual vs. general truths vs. stative uses) are not fully predictable from the words alone, so some grammatical knowledge or exposure is required.

Etymology

Present simple comes from two ideas: present means 'now' and simple means 'not changing'. Think of a clock for 'now' and a verb that stays the same. That's why we use this tense for routines, facts, and things that are true now.