English grammar: Negatives in present continuous

What this grammar point covers

The present continuous negative is used to say that something is not happening right now. It shows that an action is not in progress at the moment.

When to use it

Use this form when you want to say that someone is not doing something at this moment, or to describe actions that are not happening now.

Key forms

• Subject + am/is/are + not + verb-ing
• I am not eating.
• She is not working.
• They are not playing.

Examples

Tips

• Remember to use 'am', 'is', or 'are' before 'not'.
• Do not forget the '-ing' form of the main verb.
• Use contractions (isn't, aren't) in spoken English for a more natural sound.