Definition & Meaning of "present tense"

What is "present tense"?

Present tense is a grammatical form used to describe actions or events that are happening now or are generally true. It is the most common tense in English and is used in sentences that express current actions, habitual behaviors, or universal truths. The present tense is typically formed using the base form of the verb for all subjects, with an "-s" added for third-person singular subjects, such as "he" or "she." For example, in the sentence "He runs every morning," the verb "runs" is in the present tense, indicating a regular action. Present tense is essential for communicating ongoing activities and general statements about reality.