So, what topic should we do a review on? Let's see..okay, let's do a review on 'Types of Tenses'. One thing that distinguishes English grammar from Malay grammar is the critical use of tenses, as in past, present, and future tenses. Instead of just adding words that indicate a specific tense, in English, the verb itself has to be modified accordingly. A mistake in tenses can disrupt the intended meaning of a sentence.
Present Perfect Tense
eat >> have eaten
beat >> have beaten
fly >> have flown
1) Used for a repeated action to show how many times you have done the action (up to the present)
Ex: I have eaten three cups of megi.
Use 'since' or a 'since clause' to specify the time;
Ex. I have eaten three cups of megi since yesterday.
Note: Always use Simple Past for a 'since clause';
Ex. I have eaten three cups of megi since I arrived.
2) Used for a state/feeling that extends from a point in the past to the present
Ex. 1: I have liked her since I first saw her.
Ex. 2: I have been frustrated since I found out she's taken.
Note: For a repeated action that was definitely completed in the past (not connected to the present), simply use Simple Past, with an appropriate time phrase;
Ex. 1 I went to Teluk Intan three times last year.
Ex. 2 I saw her only a few times last winter.
Okay let's stop here for now. Next time, I'll pick up our review on Present Perfect Continuous Tense. I'm sorry if you find the above wording confusing, and I'd love to accept any comments, corrections, and constructive criticisms too since I myself am still learning. Questions are most welcomed. Until the next lesson, see ya. Assalamualaikum. ^^
