Not every verb can be used in progressive form. We do not use verbs which express situations there. But we often use verbs which express actions (dynamic verbs) in progressive forms.
The following verbs are not normally used in the progressive forms:
agree, be, like, hate, hear, imagine, know, need, prefer, promise, realize, remember, see.
Sometimes verbs can be used in progressive forms when they have certain meanings. In another meaning it is not possible to use them in progressive forms. Watch the following examples:
| Verb | Simple Forms | Progressive Forms |
|---|---|---|
| feel (to have an opinion) | I feel I should go on holiday. | --- |
| feel (to feel sth.) | How do you feel when you are on holiday? | How are you feeling today? |
| have (to possess) | I have a new computer. | --- |
| have (to eat) | I always have a cola for lunch. | I am having dinner right now. |
| see (to understand) | Oh, I see. | --- |
| see (to meet someone) | I often see Mandy at the disco. | I am seeing Peter tonight. |
| think (to believe) | I think you should see a doctor. | --- |
| think (to think about) | I have to think about it. | I am thinking about my girlfriend now. |
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