[Grammar] future or Present continuous

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Will17

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Hello!

Instead of "I'll get some coffee" could we say "I'm getting some coffee"?

Thanks a lot
W
 

emsr2d2

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Hello!

Instead of "I'll get some coffee" could we say "I'm getting some coffee"?

Thanks a lot
W

Yes. We frequently use the present continuous to indicate the future:

I'm going to a party [on Friday night].
We're heading to America for a holiday [this summer].

Remember, though, that of course the present continuous in your example could mean that you are actually currently in the process of making/buying/pouring a coffee. The timeframe or the context would make it clear which one you mean.

However, if it's the reply to a question, one or the other might be appropriate:

What are you doing?
I'm getting some coffee.

What are you going to do this afternoon?
I'm going to get some coffee.

What will you do later?
I'll get some coffee.
 

Will17

Senior Member
Joined
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Student or Learner
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French
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France
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UK
Thank you.

So, if I'm actually going towards the kitchen, in order to get some coffee, I can say "I'm getting some coffee". Am I right?

Cheers!
W
 

emsr2d2

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Jul 28, 2009
Member Type
English Teacher
Native Language
British English
Home Country
UK
Current Location
UK
Thank you.

So, if I'm actually going towards the kitchen, in order to get some coffee, I can say "I'm getting some coffee". Am I right?

Cheers!
W


Yes. If you're on your way to the kitchen and pass a colleague on the way, you might say "I'm getting [a] coffee. Do you want one?"
 
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