Non-continuous verbs
Some English verbs, which we call state, non-continuous or stative verbs, are not used in continuous tenses (like the present continuous, the future continuous, etc.).
These verbs often describe states that last for some time. Here is a list of some common ones:
| verbs of perception | verbs that express feelings/ emotions | verbs of the senses | other verbs |
understand believe / think* remember know forget want need agree promise mean | prefer like love hate | taste* smell* sound* hear* look* see* feel* | have* belongcontain fit* keep |
I want to talk to you now. – Not: I am wanting to talk to you now.
Dynamic verbs
A verb which isn't stative is called a dynamic verb, and is usually an action. This verb can be used in continuous tenses.
I am doing my homework now. / I do my homework every day.
Зверни увагу!
* Some of these verbs can be used in continuous tenses. But in this case they have different meanings.
Present Simple | Present Continuous |
I think she's hungry. (= believe) | I am thinking of drinking a cup of tea. (am considering) |
I feel you're wrong. (= think) The water feels cold. (a link verb) | I am feeling happy. (= I feel happy.) |
I can see a lake from my room. (= it's visible) I see your problem. (= I understand) | I'm seeing a doctor tomorrow. (= am meeting by appointment) He is seeing the town. (= is visiting as a tourist) |
This tea tastes sweet. (a link verb/ = it is/ has the flavour of) | Ann is tasting the soup to see if it has enough salt. (= is trying) |
This flower smells nice. (a link verb/ = has the aroma) | The dog is smelling its food. (= is sniffing) |
That cake looks good. (a link verb) | He is looking at the picture. (=watch) |
This coat fits me perfectly. (= is the right size) | We are fitting new windows in our house. (= are installing) |
She is a nice girl. (= that's her nature) | She is being rude today. (= is behaving, only today) |
He has (got) a cat. (= owns, possess) | He is having dinner. (= eating/ action) |
Зверни увагу!
* Some verbs can be used in simple or continuous tenses with no difference in meaning.
look (when we refer to somebody's appearance)
Teresa looks wonderful today. = Teresa is looking wonderful today.
feel (when we experience a particular emotion, physical or mental condition)
I feel happy. = I am feeling happy.