Simple Forms and Be-ing (Grammar Review)

This set of flashcards covers the grammatical distinctions between simple forms and the be-ing aspect in English, focusing on linguistic values like timelessness, iteration, and subjective commentary.

Timeless aspect (Aspect intemporel)

A feature of the simple present where the process is true at the moment of speaking and at every other moment, encompassing the present timeframe.

Iterative aspect

A value of the simple form that expresses the idea of habit or repetitive actions (e.g., 'I go to work by bus').

Imperfective aspect (Inaccompli)

An aspect conveyed by the be-ing form where an event is viewed at a specific point in its progression rather than as a completed whole.

Momentary character (Caractère momentané)

A value of be-ing that highlights the temporary or provisional nature of a process, often in contrast to a permanent habit.

Situational anchoring (Ancrage dans la situation)

A characteristic of the be-ing form where the speaker's statement is closely linked to the immediate situation, often because they are witnessing the behavior as they speak.

State verb (Verbe d'état)

Verbs expressing a state (e.g., involuntary perception or opinion) that are generally resistant to the be-ing form, such as 'see', 'hear', and 'feel'.

Process verb (Verbe de processus)

A verb describing an activity or behavior that is compatible with be-ing, such as 'see' when used to mean 'to date' or 'to meet'.

Prospective value

The use of the be-ing form to refer to a future event that has already been planned or decided by the subject (e.g., 'Are you playing with them tonight?').

Anaphoric value (Valeur de reprise)

The use of be-ing to refer back to a previously mentioned process in order to offer a subjective commentary, explanation, or disapproval.

Hyperbolic value (Exaggeration)

An effect created when be-ing is paired with the adverb 'always', almost always carrying the idea of a reproach addressed to the subject.

Performative verb

A verb where the act of speaking the word performs the action itself (e.g., 'I apologise'), typically used in the first person simple present.

Think (State vs. Process)

Used in the simple form for opinions (state) and the be-ing form for mental activities or active deliberation (process).

Be sick (State vs. Process)

Used in the simple form to mean 'ill' (state) and in the be-ing form to mean 'vomiting' (process).

See (State vs. Process)

Used in the simple form for involuntary visual perception and in the be-ing form to mean 'meeting' or 'dating'.

Come from (State vs. Process)

Used in the simple form to refer to a subject's origin and in the be-ing form to mean the act of 'returning' from a specific place.