The present indefinite tense is the most common tense in English. We use it for habits, routines, and general truths. Here are many examples to help you understand it clearly. You can also read the grammar lessons on other topics to learn more rules.
Structure of Present Indefinite Tense
The present indefinite tense uses the base form of the verb. With he, she, and it, we add s or es to the verb. For negatives we use do not or does not, and for questions we use do or does. For example: I play, She plays, I do not play, and Does she play? We use this tense for habits, daily routines, and facts that are always true.
Present Indefinite Tense Examples
Habits and Routines
- I wake up at 6 o’clock every morning.
- She brushes her teeth twice a day.
- He goes to school by bus.
- We eat dinner at 8 o’clock.
- They play in the park every evening.
- My father reads the newspaper after breakfast.
- The children sleep at 9 o’clock at night.
- I take a bath before breakfast.
General Truths and Facts
- The sun rises in the east.
- Water boils at 100 degrees.
- The earth moves around the sun.
- Fish live in water.
- Birds fly in the sky.
- Plants need water and sunlight.
- The cow gives us milk.
- Honesty is the best policy.
Negative Sentences
- I do not like junk food.
- She does not watch too much television.
- He does not play video games.
- We do not waste water.
- They do not tell lies.
- My brother does not eat sweets.
- The train does not stop at this station.
- I do not have a bicycle.
Questions
- Do you like mangoes?
- Does she go to school?
- Does he play cricket?
- Do they read books?
- Do you help your mother?
- Does your father drive a car?
- Do we have a test tomorrow?
- Do the birds sing in the morning?
Frequently Asked Questions
When do we use the present indefinite tense?
We use the present indefinite tense for habits, daily routines, and general truths.
How do we form negatives and questions?
We use do not or does not for negatives, and do or does for questions.
When do we add s or es to the verb?
We add s or es with he, she, and it, like she plays and he goes.