Often vs Be + Always + (Verb)ing

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1
  1. We often go there.
  2. We are always going there.

What is the difference in meaning between sentences (1) and (2)?

Thanks in advance.

2

1 is in the simple present tense, and 2 is in the present continuous tense.

3

Does ‘we are always going there’ also mean ‘we often go there’? My grammar book says that if ‘always do’ is replaced by ‘be always doing’, it means ‘usually’.

4

My grammar book says it too.

5

The word ‘always’ is often used with the present continuous to complain about or criticize something, and/or to say that the speaker thinks something happens excessively often. For example:

  • My neighbors are always making noise in the middle of the night. It’s difficult for me to get a good night’s sleep.

  • I’m always waiting for you! Can’t you try a little harder to be on time?

  • My husband is always working. I barely see him anymore. By the time he gets home, I’m usually already asleep.

  • She’s always talking about saving the environment, but she doesn’t recycle anything!

  • We are always going there, and I’m sick of it! Can’t we go somewhere different for a change?
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    [size=75]“I personally think we developed language because of our deep need to complain.” ~ Lily Tomlin[/size]