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English Grammar


PAST TENSE VS. PRESENT PERFECT TENSE

Jorgito
User since 2009
Posts: 3

20 Oct. 2011

Hi, once again me,


Have a look on the following two sentences:


I went to Japan last year.
I have been to Japan in the last year.


In the 1st sentence I understand why I have to use the Past Tense. But in the 2nd phrase, why do I have to use the Present Perfect Tense?


Thanks for your thoughts and opionios.


Jorgito of Madrid

4 comments

  • User since 2006
    Posts: 2715

    21 Oct. 2011

    Hello Jorgito,


    Last year you went to Japan. You did it at a precise moment: last year. That event is completely over.


    You have been to Japan in the last year. That happened sometime in the course the last year. By telling that your are interested in pointed out that TODAY you are fit with the 'feature' of having been to Japan. An event that left you with a present quality.


    That's my opinion.
    AhQ
  • User since 2010
    Posts: 115

    22 Oct. 2011

    Hi again,


    AhQ is spot on again. Another way of explaining the use of the present perfect tense is: if you are saying that the action or events forms part of your personal experience, then you use the present perfect.


    Sam
  • User since 2011
    Posts: 3

    19 Nov. 2011

    AFAIK this is the first time I've read such a clear explanation on why and when to use the present perfect.
    My thanks to Jorgito and AhQ!


    Note that Gymglysh does not yet present it so clearfully; I think I met it in Delavigne's lesson 2 or 3 Grammar part.
  • User since 2011
    Posts: 1

    22 Nov. 2011

    thank you Jorgito for this precision

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