The present progressive: être en train de (to be doing something) in French

Read more about how to use The present progressive: être en train de (to be doing something) in French.
Feel the need to learn new grammar tips fast? Learn French online and test your grammar knowledge with Frantastique for free.

TEST YOUR FRENCH Free with no obligation to buy.
4,6 on App Store, Play Store and Trustpilot
More than 7 million users

The present progressive: être en train de (to be doing something)

The expression être en train de + infinitive verb is used to emphasize actions in progress, similar to the present progressive tense in English. These constructions take a conjugated form of the verb être (in the present) + en train de + inifinitive verb.
Je suis en train de manger. être, présent I'm eating (right now)/ I'm in the process of eating.
Solange est en train de dormir. être, présent Solange is sleeping (right now).
Unlike the simple present tense, which is sometimes used for actions in progress, être en train de never describes a regular or habitual action.
Je mange = je suis en train de manger I am eating (this is an ongoing action: we can use the either the simple present, or en train de)
Je mange tous les jours au restaurant I eat at the restaurant every day (this is a habit: we can't use en train de here)
Note : The expression être en train de has nothing to do with trains!
Je suis en train de voyager. I'm travelling.
Je voyage en train. I travel by train / I am travelling by train.

Still having trouble with 'The present progressive: être en train de (to be doing something)'? Master the rules of French grammar and improve your French level thanks to our online French lessons Frantastique. We're offering a 7-day free trial, so what are you waiting for?



What our users say:

Pleasure

         

I enjoy doing my online French lessons. Only ten minutes daily are enough...Thank you!

Innovative

         

I love your innovative method which allows me to learn a new language and have fun at the same time!

Unique

         

Your method is unique! Your courses have helped me to progress and gain confidence during my travels.

Progress

         

Gymglish has allowed me to improve my French. A daily routine I wouldn't miss for anything in the world!

More testimonials.


Looking to improve French for beginners? Frantastique provides effective and fun training!

Tips for learning 'The present progressive: être en train de (to be doing something)'? Share them with us!

TEST YOUR FRENCH