Simple Past or Present Perfect
Simple Past or Present Perfect :
The present perfect tense has often been referred to as the immediate past. So, when do we use the simple past and when do we use the present perfect tense?
We use the present perfect tense when the action is linked with the present.
For example :
I have just cancelled the programme.
This sentence, the action continued till the present and its effect may still be there.
We use the simple past tense when the action is not linked with the present moment.
For example :
We ate at the Taj Intercontinental when we visited Goa.
In this sentence, the action took place some time in the past and the action is over. It is not linked with the present.
We use the simple past tense when a question begins with the word WHEN.
For example :
When did you submit your work? (CORRECT)
When have you submitted your work? (INCORRECT)
We use the simple past tense when we are using any past time reference.
For example :
She drew this portrait last Monday. (CORRECT)
She has drawn this portrait last Monday. (INCORRECT)
Examples :
1. I suppose you have heard the latest news. Amit married Kareena yesterday.
2. I have not seen your calculator. When did you use it last?
3. I have read this book earlier. I borrowed it from my friend.
4. I have written to you so many times. But you never replied to any of my letters.
5. Where did you hide the groom’s shoes? Have you found a good place? The groom’s brothers are searching for it everywhere.
6. We have not arrived at the resort. So we do not know about the various facilities that it has.
7. The guests have eaten their lunch. It is time for us to bid them goodbye.
8. We have painted the fence. Now you should paint the doors and windows of the house.
9. The captains tossed the coin and decided who should bat first.
10. All the participants have spoken. So it is time to announce the results now.
Simple Past or Present Perfect
The Sentences Index
