In English language there are verbs that are not normally used in the Continuous Tense, because they describe rather state than an action. They are called state verb (stative verbs, non-progressive verbs).
The verbs that can be used in the Continuous Tense are called action verbs (dynamic verbs).
Some verbs can be both state and action verbs depending on their meaning.
Here are some verbs that are not normally used in the Continuous Tense.
like
dislike
love
hate
prefer
remember
forget
believe
mean
seem
understand
want
need
know
belong
own
Here are some a few verbs that can be both state and action verbs depending on their meaning.
I think you made a mistake.
think = believe
I am thinking about my mum now.
think = mental process
I have two cars.
have = possess, own
I am having my lunch now.
have = eat
I am seeing my friend tomorrow evening.
see = meeting with
I see what you mean.
See = understand
English Action and State Verbs - Practice
Decide if these English verbs are action verbs, state verbs,
or can be both action and state verbs.
English Action and State Verbs - More Practice
Choose the correct form of the verb depending on whether in this meaning it is an action or a state verb. If both the Present Continuous and the Present Simple tenses are possible, use the Present Continuous tense.
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Present Perfect Tense - when to use; how to form; how to use yet already, for and since; the difference between the Present Perfect and the Past Simple tenses