In this Topic, we're going to learn about another way ている is used, and also about the てから pattern. With these, we'll expand how we can connect verbs and describe the world.

With this use of ている, we will be able to talk about states (results of actions). And with てから, we will be able to emphasize the strict order of actions.

Let's take a closer look at て, and think about Japanese verbs to illuminate why ている appears to mean different things with different verbs.

What's Going On?

We've previously discussed the difference between aspect (if something is ongoing or not) and tense (the time it happened). To help us understand the uses of ている, let's see how different verbs handle 'aspect'.

Verbs can be split into different groups based on how they express aspect, which is also reflected in how they use ている. For example, we have now learned how ている can be used for an ongoing action and, also, for ongoing states (resultant states).

In both cases, something is 'ongoing'. For verbs which express continuous actions, the action is ongoing. For verbs which express instantaneous actions, the resultant state of the action is also considered to be ongoing.

To ている Or Not To ている

There are also verbs which generally do not use the ている form. These verbs represent states which do not have an 'instant' where there is a before/after. They just 'exist' without a start or finish.

And, finally, there are verbs which are essentially always used with ている. These verbs tend to express characteristics or appearances rather than actions.

The State Of Things

In summary, there are broadly four ways to group verbs based on how they express aspect (whether something is ongoing or not). This is reflected in how ている is used.

The most important takeaway is that ている does not always mean 'doing right now'. Ideally, think of ている as 'The action is alive/active'. Sometimes that means the movement is active (like eating), and sometimes it means the result is active (like being married).