In limba engleza (spre deosebire de limba romana) exista timpuri continue sau progresive.
Timpul prezent continuu exprima o actiune ce se desfasoara exact in momentul vorbirii.
Ex: I am writing now this sentence for you.
Timpul trecut continuu exprima o actiune in curs de desfasurare fata de un moment sau reper din trecut.
Ex. When my brother entered my room I was reading.
Timpul viitor continuu exprima o actiune in curs de desfasurare fata de un moment sau reper din viitor.
Ex. When I will arrive you will be waiting for me.
Toate formele verbale terminate in -ing care intra in componenta timpurilor continue sunt la modul participiu prezent.
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Verbele se mai termina in -ing la modul gerunziu, ele devenind substantive.
Reading is a pleasant activity for my brother. He enjoys reading books. His favorite hobby is reading.