#232: Words That Trigger the Present Progressive in Italian

Italian uses the present progressive far less frequently than English and typically reserves it for actions happening right at the moment of speaking. In most other cases, the simple present tense is preferred. There are, however, specific time expressions that clearly signal when the progressive form should be used.

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Two Main Takeaways

  • When that right now meaning is explicit, it is common to use the present progressive in Italian.
  • Time expressions like “adesso” (now), “proprio adesso” (right now), and “in questo momento” (in this moment) signal that something is happening right now. For this reason, it is common to use the present progressive in Italian.

Links Mentioned and Other Resources

  • CLICK HERE to listen to episode #228: Words That Trigger the “Imperfetto” in Italian.
  • CLICK HERE to listen to episode #225: Words That Trigger the “Passato Prossimo” in Italian.
  • CLICK HERE to get the 30 Key Phrases for Your Italian Vacation guide, covering the most important phrases you need to know before going to Italy.

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