Use of the Present Perfect
In British English the present perfect is used to express an action that
has occurred in the recent past that has an effect on the present
moment. For example:
I've lost my key. Can you help
me
look
for it?
In American English the following is also possible:
I lost my key. Can you help
me
look
for it?
In British English the above would be considered incorrect. However,
both forms
are
generally accepted in
standard
American English. Other differences involving the use of the present
perfect in British English and simple past in American English include
already, just and yet.
British English:
I've just had lunch
I've already seen that film
Have you finished your homework yet?
American English:
I just had lunch OR I've just had lunch
I've already seen that film OR I already saw that film.
Have your finished your homework yet? OR Did you finish your homework
yet? |