Present progressive tense.

Kimberly W.A1Kwiziq community member

Present progressive tense.

In the example “Ellos siempre estan comiendo” why is the present progressive tense used. In my research I learned that the progressive tense is used for temporary ongoing action. The use of siempre implies that it is not temporary.

Asked 2 weeks ago
SilviaNative Spanish expert teacher in Kwiziq

Hola Kimberly!

Great observation! Normally, the present progressive in Spanish ("estar + gerundio", like "están comiendo") is indeed used to describe actions that are temporary or currently ongoing. However, in this case, using the present progressive with "siempre" adds an extra layer of meaning.

When we say, "Ellos siempre están comiendo", it implies that "they" are always eating in a repetitive, perhaps even exaggerated way. The progressive tense here conveys the sense that eating is something they’re doing so often that it feels constant or habitual, even if it’s not literally happening every single moment.

So, the progressive with "siempre" in this sentence emphasizes a recurring behaviour, often adding a hint of humor, annoyance, or exaggeration, rather than describing an actual continuous action. It’s a nuanced use of the progressive tense that brings attention to how frequent or habitual the action is.

Feliz semana

Silvia

Present progressive tense.

In the example “Ellos siempre estan comiendo” why is the present progressive tense used. In my research I learned that the progressive tense is used for temporary ongoing action. The use of siempre implies that it is not temporary.

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your Spanish level for FREE

Test your Spanish to the CEFR standard

Find your Spanish level
Thinking...