Why have perfect tenses in English?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nuances between the perfect tenses and simple past tense in English, specifically the present perfect and past perfect forms. Participants highlight that "I was there" indicates a specific event, while "I have been there" suggests an ongoing relevance or experience. The conversation also draws parallels with French tense usage, noting that English's perfect tenses can express subtleties that are not present in other languages. Ultimately, the consensus is that English tenses can be complex and often lead to confusion among learners.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of English verb tenses, particularly present perfect and past perfect.
  • Familiarity with comparative grammar, especially between English and French.
  • Knowledge of the progressive aspect in English.
  • Basic linguistic terminology related to tense and aspect.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between English present perfect and simple past tenses.
  • Explore the use of the past perfect tense in English grammar.
  • Study the French passé composé and its implications compared to English tenses.
  • Examine the role of context in determining tense usage in English sentences.
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Language learners, linguists, educators, and anyone interested in mastering English grammar and its complexities.

  • #31
Studiot said:
That is because the correct construction to express this thought would be

"Gadaffi had been the dictator of Libya at the time of the airliner crash in Lockerbee, Scotland."

Well I don't think that sentence is well constructed if you use the present perfect: "...has been...at the time...". I would write it as "Gadaffi has been the dictator of Libya since the airliner crash..." Again, you used the past perfect, which is correct, but that's not what I'm discussing now. My point is that even if you substitute the past perfect for "was", the use of the simple past is clear and is used. Moreover, when you use the past perfect, you should reference another point in the past. "Gaffafi had been dictator of Libya for twenty years before the Lockerbee incident". I discuss these types of sentences in the post you're referencing(#28). Please go back and read my comment re perfect vs imperfect tenses.
 
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