they have a great time vs they are having a great time

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'They have a great time' is more general and can refer to a past experience or a habitual activity. 'They are having a great time' is more specific and refers to a current or ongoing experience. The choice between the two depends on whether you want to emphasize the ongoing nature of the experience or not.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 6378 views

they have a great time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to describe a past experience or a habitual activity in which someone enjoys themselves.

Examples:

Every time they visit the amusement park, they have a great time.
They have a great time whenever they go out with their friends.

Show examples from the web [+]

Aug 5, 2010 ... "I've a car" instead of "I have a car"; "They've a great time" instead of "They have a great time"; "He's a pen" instead of "He has a pen"; etc.
Every Sunday, near the end of their Bible study time our children gather to sing. They have a great time together with Mrs. Banda as they learn new songs and ...
Nov 20, 2014 ... They have a great time, learn some new vocabulary, and drop a lot of wonderful one-liners. Man, it would be weird to go visit your grandma and ...
Not only do they have a great time at camp but they are also inspired to continue practicing throughout the year after receiving advice from their coaches and ...

Alternatives:

They always enjoy themselves.
They have a blast.
They have a lot of fun.
They have a wonderful time.
They have an amazing time.

they are having a great time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to describe a current or ongoing experience in which someone is enjoying themselves.

Examples:

At the party, they are having a great time dancing and chatting with friends.
During their vacation, they are having a great time exploring new places.

Show examples from the web [+]

them, you will be happy knowing they are having a great time. WELL, WE TRIED. So, you did all that and still you have a hysterical child calling from the camp ...
... kind of day I am having, I always know that when I go in I get to laugh, joke around and have fun with my guests and make sure they are having a great time.
... conveying love, it tells the kids you need them at home. Let them know that while you will miss them, you will be happy knowing they are having a great time.
Dec 8, 2012 ... Rabbits Frolicking - Extremely Cute and they are Having a Great Time.mpg. Richie Lederman. SubscribeSubscribedUnsubscribe 46 ...

Alternatives:

They are really enjoying themselves.
They are having a blast.
They are having a lot of fun.
They are having a wonderful time.
They are having an amazing time.

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they have a great time vs they are having a great time