Present simple and continuous: 2

Here are some of the most commonly used of these verbs:

believe * hate * know * like * love * mean * need * prefer *
realize * remember * suppose * think (when it means "believe") *
understand * want

These verbs can not be used in the continuous tense because they are not action verbs. (The continuous tenses are used for actions and happenings.)

We use the present simple instead.

• I like shopping. (Not: I am liking shopping)
• What do you mean? (Not: What are you meaning?)
• Do you think it's a good idea? (Not: Are you thinking...?)
• He wants to see me again. (Not: He is wanting...)
• It's such a beautiful day. I don't want to go to work. (Not: I am not wanting)
• I don't understand. (Not: I am not understanding)

Now try the exercise on the next page.

Dagmar Taylor