Present PerfectINGL 3102

C. Mazak

The present perfect is used to express the duration (length of time) of an activity that began in the past and is still in progress right now.

Example:

Citrus fruit has grown in Puerto Rico since 1493.

Use of the Present Perfect (1)

The present perfect expresses an activity or situation that occurred before the present time.

Example:

I have finished my work.

Use of the Present Perfect (2)

The present perfect is formed using have/has and the past participle:

S + have/has + past participle (+ since/for + length of time)

Citrus fruit has grown in Puerto Rico since 1493.

Form of the Present Perfect

The negative present perfect is formed like this:

S + have/has + not + past participle (+ since/for + time)

Puerto Rico has not exported citrus fruit since 1931.

I have not finished my homework.

Negative

Use since when expressing a date or specific moment in time.

◦ Example: Puerto Rico has not exported citrus fruit since 1931.

Use for when expressing the duration of time.

◦ Example: Puerto Rico has not exported citrus fruit for 78 years.

Since or For?

I have finished studying. I have already eaten breakfast. Pedro has eaten in the restaurant many

times.

We have been in class since 11:30. I have been a professor for four years. You have been a college student for one

year.

More examples

Look at your draft. Add one sentence using the present perfect.

Exercise