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I was reading an English textbooks, in which there are examples of present continues tenses:

I've lost my key again. I'm always losing things.

You are always watching television. You should do something more active.

As far as this are an actions, which are repeated always I would guess that this kind of thoughts should be expressed in present tense form. So why they keep them in present continues tense, rather then in present simple?

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The present continuous in this case (with words "always" or "constantly") is used to emphasize the idea that something happens so often that becomes characteristic of a person, group or thing. Notice that the meaning is like simple present, but sometimes with negative emotion, irritation or disapproval.

She is always coming to school late. He is constantly talking. I wish he would shut up. I don't like them because they are always complaining.

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  • But the use of present continuous to express habitual action does not have anything to do with "th negative emotion, irritation or disapproval." Consider José is always finding better ways to improve his English and You are always watching television when you should be: after you've finished your homework.
    – Alan Carmack
    Commented Sep 19, 2016 at 14:53
  • I should have written sometimes
    – V.V.
    Commented Sep 19, 2016 at 15:51

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