Learning a new language can be both exciting and challenging. One of the most essential aspects of mastering a language is understanding its verb tenses and how they are used in different contexts. In this article, we will delve into the present continuous tense, focusing on the verb “tegema,” which means “doing” in Estonian. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how to use the present continuous tense in Estonian and be able to apply it in various situations.
Understanding the Present Continuous Tense
The present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are currently happening at the moment of speaking or actions that are ongoing. In English, this tense is formed by combining the auxiliary verb “to be” with the present participle of the main verb (e.g., “I am eating,” “She is reading”). Similarly, in Estonian, the present continuous tense is formed using the verb “olema” (to be) and the present participle of the main verb.
Forming the Present Continuous Tense with “Tegema”
The verb “tegema” means “to do” or “doing” in Estonian. To form the present continuous tense with “tegema,” we need to follow these steps:
1. Conjugate the verb “olema” (to be) in the present tense.
2. Use the present participle form of “tegema,” which is “tegemas.”
Here is the conjugation of “olema” in the present tense:
– Mina olen (I am)
– Sina oled (You are)
– Tema on (He/She is)
– Meie oleme (We are)
– Teie olete (You all are)
– Nemad on (They are)
Now, let’s combine the conjugated forms of “olema” with “tegemas”:
– Mina olen tegemas (I am doing)
– Sina oled tegemas (You are doing)
– Tema on tegemas (He/She is doing)
– Meie oleme tegemas (We are doing)
– Teie olete tegemas (You all are doing)
– Nemad on tegemas (They are doing)
Using the Present Continuous Tense in Sentences
To help you get a better grasp of how to use the present continuous tense with “tegema,” let’s look at some example sentences:
1. Mina olen praegu kodutööd tegemas. (I am doing homework right now.)
2. Sina oled raamatut lugemas. (You are reading a book.)
3. Tema on autot pesemas. (He/She is washing the car.)
4. Meie oleme filmi vaatamas. (We are watching a movie.)
5. Teie olete õhtusööki valmistamas. (You all are preparing dinner.)
6. Nemad on pargis jalutamas. (They are walking in the park.)
As you can see, the structure is quite straightforward. The conjugated form of “olema” is followed by the present participle “tegemas” to indicate the ongoing action.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When learning a new tense, it’s common to make mistakes. Here are some common errors learners make when using the present continuous tense with “tegema” and tips on how to avoid them:
1. Incorrect Conjugation of “Olemma”
One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong form of “olema.” Remember to conjugate “olema” according to the subject of the sentence. For example, “Mina olen” (I am) should not be confused with “Sina oled” (You are).
Incorrect: Mina oled tegemas. (I are doing.)
Correct: Mina olen tegemas. (I am doing.)
2. Omitting the Present Participle “Tegemas”
Another common mistake is forgetting to use the present participle form “tegemas.” The present continuous tense requires the use of this form to indicate the ongoing action.
Incorrect: Mina olen tegema. (I am to do.)
Correct: Mina olen tegemas. (I am doing.)
3. Using the Infinitive Form of the Main Verb
Sometimes learners mistakenly use the infinitive form of the main verb instead of the present participle. Remember that “tegemas” is the correct form to use in the present continuous tense.
Incorrect: Mina olen tegema kodutööd. (I am to do homework.)
Correct: Mina olen tegemas kodutööd. (I am doing homework.)
Practice Makes Perfect
To master the present continuous tense with “tegema,” it’s important to practice regularly. Here are some exercises to help you reinforce your understanding:
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences by conjugating “olema” and using the correct form of “tegema”:
1. Mina ________ (olema) praegu süüa ________ (tegema).
2. Sina ________ (olema) televiisorit ________ (tegema).
3. Tema ________ (olema) aeda ________ (tegema).
4. Meie ________ (olema) raadiot ________ (tegema).
5. Teie ________ (olema) pesu ________ (tegema).
6. Nemad ________ (olema) trenni ________ (tegema).
Exercise 2: Translate the Sentences
Translate the following sentences from English to Estonian:
1. I am doing my homework.
2. You are reading a book.
3. He/She is washing the dishes.
4. We are playing a game.
5. You all are cooking dinner.
6. They are walking the dog.
Exercise 3: Create Your Own Sentences
Create five sentences using the present continuous tense with “tegema.” Make sure to use different subjects and actions to practice a variety of conjugations and contexts.
Contextual Uses of the Present Continuous Tense
Understanding how to form the present continuous tense is crucial, but it’s equally important to know when to use it. Here are some common contexts where the present continuous tense with “tegema” is used in Estonian:
1. Actions Happening Right Now
The most straightforward use of the present continuous tense is to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking.
Example:
Mina olen kohvi tegemas. (I am making coffee.)
2. Temporary Actions
The present continuous tense can also be used to describe actions that are temporary or not permanent.
Example:
Tema on praegu Eestis elamas. (He/She is living in Estonia right now.)
3. Future Plans
In some cases, the present continuous tense can be used to talk about future plans or arrangements.
Example:
Meie oleme homme sõpradega kohtumas. (We are meeting friends tomorrow.)
4. Repeated Actions
While less common, the present continuous tense can describe repeated actions, especially when expressing annoyance or criticism.
Example:
Teie olete alati hiljaks jäämas. (You all are always being late.)
Conclusion
Mastering the present continuous tense with the verb “tegema” is a significant step in becoming proficient in Estonian. By understanding the structure, practicing regularly, and knowing when to use this tense, you will be well on your way to fluency. Remember to conjugate “olema” correctly, use the present participle “tegemas,” and apply this tense in various contexts to describe ongoing actions. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you will soon find yourself confidently using the present continuous tense in your everyday conversations. Happy learning!
