Fill in the blank with the most appropriate option:
Our cook usually comes at seven in the morning, but this week she ______ at nine because her daughter has exams.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → is coming
Present continuous for a short-term change:
- Its form is is / am / are + V-ing.
- Besides actions going on now, it shows a temporary change from the usual habit.
- Clue word: “usually ... but this week”.
- The habit is seven o’clock.
- Nine o’clock is only for this week.
- Complete sentence: Our cook usually comes at seven in the morning, but this week she is coming at nine because her daughter has exams.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: comes — Incorrect.
- “Comes” is the simple present.
- It shows a usual habit, not a short break from it.
- Example: The milkman comes at six every day.
Option 3: has come — Incorrect.
- “Has come” is the present perfect: has + past participle (V3).
- It shows a past action with a result now, not an arrangement for the week.
- Example: Look, the postman has come.
Option 4: came — Incorrect.
- “Came” is the simple past.
- “This week” and “has exams” show the present.
- Example: She came late yesterday.