Present perfect vs.past simpleMgr. Ema Jarošová

Present perfect we use for

Single or repeated actions that happened at an unspecified time in the past.

I´ve seen the film but I haven´t read the book.

We often use expressions of frequency: ever, never, often, once/twice/ several times.

Recently completed single actions, when the result of the action is important in the present.

I´ve broken my leg. (I can´t walk)o We often use just, already (=sooner

than expected), and yet (up to now) for emphasis.

The taxi has just arrived.o We can also use recently (a short time

ago) Have you spoken to them recently?

With for and since to talk about states, events or actions that began in past and continue up to now.

We´ve known each other since 1997/ for years.

To talk about an unfinished time period, we use present perfect.

Have you been busy this morning? (It´s still morning)

Past simple we use for

Finished events or actions that happened at a definite time in the past. We use expressions like yesterday, last week/month/year, ago.

For completed past actions which does not affect the present.

Compare: Have you had a good holiday (You´ve just returned)

Did you have a good holiday? (you returned some time before the question)