Time Frames and Verb Tenses (Basic, A-Level)
Verb tenses in English express ideas in the past, present, or future. They also tell you if the idea is completed or happening in the past, present, or future.
It can be difficult to learn verb tenses in English because the same verb tense sometimes expresses different ideas.
Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels
Depending on the context, for example, you use the present simple tense to talk about
- something that is always true,
- something that happens all the time,
- something that will happen in the future, or
- something that happened in the past.
How is that possible?!
Verb tenses put the action or event in a particular time frame. Simple time frames include the past, present, and future. You also have time frames in the past either that are either completed or that are happening at that moment.
Understanding the concept of time frames helps you understand what verb tenses do in English. It can help you in any new language you learn.
Understanding Time Frames
You can place actions, states, or events in different time frames. In the examples below, all sentences are about the same action (studying).
When you use different verb tenses, you may change the time frame. Other times, the same verb tense can place the action in different time frames. The context makes the time frame clear.
Action of studying in different time frames
I study English every day.
This uses the present simple tense.
The time frame is past, present, and future at the same time. It is a habit.
When I study English tomorrow, I will learn a new lesson.
This uses the present simple tense.
The time frame is future. The action will happen tomorrow.
I am studying English now.
This uses the present continuous tense.
The time frame is present. The action of studying is happening right now.
I am studying English tomorrow.
This uses the present continuous tense.
The time frame is future. It expresses the idea that the action is planned.
I am studying to be a doctor.
This uses the present continuous tense. The time frame is present. I am involved in this activity but not necessarily right now.
Remember! Focus on the Time Frame
As an English-language learner, you usually learn the names of the tenses (present simple, present continuous, past simple, present perfect continuous, and so on). It is okay to know the names of the verb tenses so you can talk to your teacher and to other people about them if you have questions. However, it is more important to understand the different time frames that the verb tense expresses.
When you understand that the same verb tense can put the action in different time frames (present, past, or future), you will be able to learn and use verb tenses more effectively.
Congratulations on completing this lesson!
Thanks to our supporters!
This material has been made possible by supporters like you. Learn how you can support us.
“What should I learn next?”
Use the navigation buttons to choose another skill or another lesson in this skill.
Thank you for Supporting Snap Language
Snap Language supporters make the creation of these materials possible.
Learn how you can support our work, get perks, and help us continue creating high-quality materials.
You can support us by simply white-listing this site.