To complete the sentences using the Present Simple or the Present Continuous, it's important to understand when each tense is used. The Present Simple is used for habitual actions, general truths, and states, while the Present Continuous is used for actions happening at the moment of speaking or for temporary situations.
He is fitting new cabinets in the kitchen.
- "Is fitting" is used here because the action of installing new cabinets is happening at the moment or is a temporary situation.
She looks so relieved now that the test is over.
- "Looks" is a state verb in this context, describing her current appearance or state, rather than an ongoing action.
Tom does not like Indian food. It's too hot and spicy for him.
- "Does not like" is used here because it's a general statement about Tom's preference, which is a habitual state.
The new rock band is appearing on stage tonight.
- "Is appearing" is used because it's a scheduled event happening in the near future, often expressed with the Present Continuous.
This isn't Ahmed's coat. It does not belong to him.
- "Does not belong" describes a state of ownership, which is permanent or habitual and uses the Present Simple.
The food smells nice.
- "Smells" is a state verb here, describing a sensory perception, which uses the Present Simple.
The funfair rides are exciting. We are having a great time!
- "Are having" is used because it describes an ongoing action or temporary situation currently happening.
I do not know where Jane is at the moment.
- "Do not know" expresses a lack of knowledge, which is a state rather than an action, so the Present Simple is used.
The Browns are thinking of going to the theatre tonight.
- "Are thinking" is used because it describes a temporary consideration or plan for the near future, appropriate for the Present Continuous.
Understanding the context and the nature of the verbs (whether they describe a state or an action) helps in determining the correct tense to use.
