Lesson 19: present perfect simple Vs Continuous. Nov 17th, 2005

On this show we talked about the difference between “present perfect simple” and “present perfect continuous”. Here are some points: 

Use the ’simple’ for permanent situations; use the ‘continuous’ for more temporary situations:
e.g.: I have lived in Japan all my life.
I have been living in Japan for the last month.

Use the ’simple’ to express the idea [bad word]  Use the ‘continous’ to emphasize the continuation of the activity.
e.g.: Who has eaten my chocolates? (There are none left).
I’ve been waiting for this bus 1 hour (and it still has not arrived, i.e I am still waiting).

 [bad word] verbs are not ususally used in the ‘continuous’, i.e., “know”.
e.g.: I have known Bob for 3 years (NOT:*I have been knowing…).

Present perfect simple Vs continuous

Song by Tommy Z: “I wanna go to heaven”. 

podshow

tommyz

I “wanna” go to heaven
so im “changin” the way I live
I wanna go to heaven
so I’m “changin” the way I live

I’m “gonna” stop my selfish ways
Start “learnin” how to give

I wanna see my family
and all my friends
and all the people here today
in heaven again

Yes I “wanna” go to heaven
so Im “changin” the way I live
Im “gonna” stop my selfish ways
start “learnin” how to give

REPEAT

Both sides of the pond
(US) Connect/ (UK) Connect / Put through
(US) Cuffs (pants)/ (UK) Turn-ups (trousers)