Lesson 19: present perfect simple Vs Continuous. Nov 17th, 2005
On this show we talked about the difference between “present perfect simple” and “present perfect continuous”. Here are some points:
Use the ’simple’ for permanent situations; use the ‘continuous’ for more temporary situations: e.g.: I have lived in Japan all my life. I have been living in Japan for the last month.
Use the ’simple’ to express the idea of completion. Use the ‘continous’ to emphasize the continuation of the activity. e.g.: Who has eaten my chocolates? (There are none left). I’ve been waiting for this bus 1 hour (and it still has not arrived, i.e I am still waiting).
Some common verbs are not ususally used in the ‘continuous’, i.e., “know”. e.g.: I have known Bob for 3 years (NOT:*I have been knowing…).
Present perfect simple Vs continuous
Song by Tommy Z: “I wanna go to heaven”.
podshow
tommyz
I “wanna” go to heaven so im “changin” the way I live I wanna go to heaven so I’m “changin” the way I live
I’m “gonna” stop my selfish ways Start “learnin” how to give
I wanna see my family and all my friends and all the people here today in heaven again
Yes I “wanna” go to heaven so Im “changin” the way I live Im “gonna” stop my selfish ways start “learnin” how to give
REPEAT
Both sides of the pond (US) Connect/ (UK) Connect / Put through (US) Cuffs (pants)/ (UK) Turn-ups (trousers)