Unit 8 Present perfect (2) (I have done)

When we talk about a period of time that continues from the past until now, we use the present perfect (have been/have travelled etc.)

Have you ever eaten caviar? (in your life), We’ve never had a car. Have you read Hamlet? No, I haven’t read any of Shakespeare’s plays. Susan really loves that film. She’s seen it eight times!

In the following examples the speakers are talking about a period that continues until now (recently, in the last few days, so far, since breakfast etc.)

Have you heard from George recently? I’ve met a lot of people in the last few days. Everything is going well. We haven’t had any problems so far. I’m hungry. I haven’t eaten anything since breakfast (=from breakfast until now). It’s nice to see you again. We haven’t seen each other for a long time.

We use present perfect with today/this morning/this evening etc. when these period are not finished at the time of speaking.

I’ve drunk four cups of coffee today. (perhaps I’ll drink more before today is finished) have you had a holiday this year (yet)? I haven’t seen Tom this morning. Have you? Ron hasn’t worked very hard this term.

Note that we say ‘It’s the first time something has happened.

For example: It’s the first time he has driven a car (not ‘drives’) or He has never driven a car before.

Linda has lost her passport again.

It’s second time this has happened (not ‘happens’).

This is a lovely meal.

It’s the first good meal I’ve had for ages. (not ‘I have’)

Bill is phoning his girlfriend again.

That’s the third time he’s phoned her this evening.