The present perfect:
Form : Subject + to have ( in the present simple) + Past participle e.g. ------She---------------- has ----------------------------------worked |
When we use the present perfect we have always a connection with “ NOW”.
------------------------------------------------------Time of speaking Past ---------------------------------------------------------- . ----------------------------> Future --------------------Present perfect |
Uses of the present perfect:
• a past action whose time is not definite
e.g. - have you had breakfast? à No, I haven't had it yet à (present simple)
à yes, I had it at 7 o'clock à (past Simple)
• Present perfect is usually used with
- for + period of time
- since + date
----------------------------------------------------------Time of speaking Past ------------ . ---------------------------------------------- . ----------------------------? Future -----------------2009 ----Present perfect ---------------2012
|
I have been in the army for for 3 years
I have been in the army since 2009
• Present perfect with (yet / never / ever /recently)
She hasn't finished her work yet, she needs more time.
I have recently received a letter from Tom.
Have you ever seen a dinosaur?
I have never seen a dinosaur.
• With already with something that happened sooner than expected.
- Brian: Don't forget to post the letter, will you?
- John: I have already posted it.
With expressions like This is the first time I have ever seen a blue-eyed girl
This is the best movie I have ever watched
This is the worst mark I have ever got.