The Present Perfect

The Present Perfect

1. Relationship between past and present

We use the present perfect when:

a) there is a connection between the past and the present:

I have read this book. (so I know it)

b) we give new information:

I have broken the vase. (so it is broken)

) to talk about things people have done or experienced and the exact time is not important and the action can be repeated:

He has travelled to several countries. (not important when)

2. With adverbials

We use the present perfect with adverbials which show a connection between the past and the present:

already, yet, still, just, so far, up to now, ever, never, recently, since, for, ever, before, etc.

I have already finished the project.

Peter has lived in London and New York so far.

She has just completed her degree.

Have you ever been to New York?

I have never eaten a frog.

3. With time reference

We use the present perfect to talk about a period of time which started in the past and continuing into the present (and perhaps beyond).

We often use: today, this + morning/afternoon/week/year, etc.

I ’ve travelled a lot. (in my life and can do it again)

I have taken two exams this week. (the week is not finished)

She has written three emails this morning. (the morning is not finished)

4. In clauses of time and condition

We use the present perfect simple to refer to a future action which will be completed.

I will send you an email after I have finished my homework.

Can you give me a ring when you have arrived to the hotel?

Once you have found your passport, you can travel again.

5. With since, for, how long

We use the present perfect simple to describe how long an activity is if the activity started in the past and continues to the present or into the future.

We use: since, for and how long

I have lived in Beijing for 6 months.

He has worked for Microsoft since 1996.

How long have you had this car?

6. With superlatives

We can use the present perfect simple with superlatives to say that something we experience is the best/worst, first, etc that has happened to us so far.

It’s the best cake I have ever eaten.

It’s the most expensive holiday I have ever had.

It’s the first time I have been here.

7. For or since?

We use for to say how long an activity is (a period of time). We use since to say when an activity started.