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www0935
Joined: 14 Apr 2008
Posts: 173
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 Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 4:54 am Post subject: Not used in progressive tense? |
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Hi, the following is my question:
According to "Longman Dictionary of Common Errors", verbs with "state" meanings which are NOT used in progressive tenses include LOVE, etc.
But in McDonald's slogan, we can see, "[color=darkred]I'm lovin' it[/color]." Is there anything wrong with this sentence?
Please help. |
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dragn
Joined: 17 Feb 2009
Posts: 450
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| Posted: Tue May 26, 2009 3:44 pm Post subject: |
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| Quote: |
According to "Longman Dictionary of Common Errors", verbs with "state" meanings which are NOT used in progressive tenses include LOVE, etc.
But in McDonald's slogan, we can see, "I'm lovin' it." Is there anything wrong with this sentence? |
Good for you! I always get a kick out of questions like this because it shows you're paying attention to the English around you, as you should!
I'm happy to report that the English used by the McDonald's Corporation is indeed correct. Colloquial, but correct. That rule applies to the vast majority of cases; however, there are a few odd exceptions, most of which are rather colloquial or idiomatic. Here are a few others:
I'm liking it. --> Essentially the same as I'm loving it: I'm enjoying/relishing it.
I'm seeing someone. --> I am dating someone on a regular basis.
I'm thinking (that) st is true. --> I'm beginning to realize (that) st is true.
(Ex. "I'm thinking this place is a yawn [boring; devoid of excitement]. Let's check out that new pub across town.")
Greg |
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