Present Tense (definition)

In Gaelic only one verb has a true present tense: the verb Bi (irregular verb). Present tense is typically expressed using the verb bi in combination with a verbal noun in an auxiliary construction. For example, the present tense for a verb like kiss would be expressed by literally saying X is kissing Y:

1)

Tha	Muirgheal	a'	pògadh	Pòl
Be.pres	Muriel	prog	kiss.vn	Paul
Muriel is kissing Paul/ Muriel kisses Paul

In English, the present tense is often used to indicate a habitual action (e.g. John runs). In Gaelic, this usage is typically expressed by the future tense instead.

See also

Tense (definition) Past Tense (definition) Future Tense (definition)