Grammar: Present Continuous for Future
A2 Lesson 18: Talking About Fixed Plans
Same Grammar, Different Meaning
We know the Present Continuous is for actions happening now. But, we can also use it to talk about the future. We do this for definite arrangements and fixed plans—things you have already organized.
Action Now 🏃♀️
Describes what is happening at this moment.
Example: He is watching TV.
Future Arrangement 🗓️
Describes a fixed plan for the future. You need a future time word.
Example: He is watching TV tonight.
The Grammar Rule 📖
How to Know the Meaning
The time expression in the sentence tells you if the meaning is NOW or FUTURE.
| Sentence | Meaning |
|---|---|
| They are playing football. | Happening Now |
| They are playing football on Saturday. | Future Plan |
| What are you doing? | Happening Now |
| What are you doing next week? | Future Plan |
In Conversation
Listen to two friends making plans for the weekend.
Nita: Hi Vanna! What are you doing this weekend?
Vanna: Hi Nita! I'm visiting my family in the province. I'm leaving on Friday afternoon. What about you?
Nita: Sounds nice! I'm not doing anything special on Saturday, but I'm meeting Sreyda for coffee on Sunday morning.
Vanna: Oh, that's great! Have a good time.
Practice Your Grammar 🎯
Exercise: Action Now or Future Plan?
Read each sentence and decide if the meaning is 'Action Now' or a 'Future Plan'.
- Please be quiet. The baby is sleeping.
→ Action Now - We are having a party next weekend.
→ Future Plan - He can't answer the phone because he is taking a shower.
→ Action Now - I am starting my new job on Monday.
→ Future Plan
Your Grammar Mission ⭐
What Are Your Plans?
Write three sentences about your real, fixed plans for this week. Use the Present Continuous + a future time word.
Example: I am traveling to Battambang on Friday.
Key Vocabulary
- Arrangement A plan or preparation for a future event, often made with other people.
- Plan A decision about what you are going to do in the future.
- Future The time that will come after the present.