Learn English – the difference between “you are being” and “you are”

differencemeaning-in-contexttense

Having a debate on whether "You are being a jerk" and "You are a jerk" have the same meaning in context. Are you calling someone a jerk if you state they are "being" a jerk or is the context that they are portraying qualities of a jerk?

Best Answer

There is a pretty visible distinction between both, and this example displays one of the main uses of continuous present.

You are being a jerk

Means that you're a jerk right now, on the matter at hand.

You are a jerk.

Is way more general and is used to express your opinion about the person. However, you could say "you're such a jerk" on the moment because you're furious, but then not think so any more.