present perfect continuous rules.docx

Simple

Continuous

1.    Focuses on COMPLETED actions.

E.g. I’ve read your book.

1. Focuses on UNFINISHED actions.

e.g. I’ve been reading your book.

2.    Commonly used with STATIVE  VEBS.

E.g. I’ve known him for years.

2. Not common with STATIVE VERBS

E.g. I’ve been knowing him for years.

3.    Emphasises PERMANENT/ROUTINE actions/states.

E.g. I’ve worked hard all my life.

4. Emphasises TEMPORARY actions/states.

E.g. I’ve been working hard recently.

4.        Is more MATTER-OF-FACT.

E.g. I’ve waited an hour for you.

4. Carries more ATTITUDE (e.g. annoyance)

E.g. I’ve been waiting an hour for you. [It’s not acceptable].

5.

E.g. I’ve worked here for 20 years.

NB. No objective difference in meaning.

5. Emphasises DURATION

I’ve been working here for 20 years.

NB. No objective difference in meaning

6.    Emphasis is on SINGLE ACTIONS.

E.g. I’ve already phoned them.

6. Used for REPEATED ACTIONS

E.g. I’ve been phoning them all morning.

7.    Can be used for RECENTLY COMPLETED actions.

E.g. He has just left.

7. Can be used for RECENTLY COMPLETED actions.

E.g. Why are you sweating?

I’ve been running.