It started in the past. It's still happening now (or just finished!).
Let's master the art of "Have been doing". 🏃♂️💨
Building this tense is like making a sandwich. You need specific layers in a specific order. Select a subject below to see how the "Helper Verb" changes!
"I have been working..."
The action began some time ago (10 minutes ago, 3 years ago, yesterday).
The action is NOT finished. It is continuing right into this very moment.
I have been waiting for 2 hours.
(Started 2 hours ago -> Still waiting now)
Sometimes the action just stopped, but we can see the result clearly now. We use this tense to explain why something is the way it is in the present.
Evidence (Now)
She is out of breath.
Because she has been running.
Evidence (Now)
The ground is wet.
Because it has been raining.
Evidence (Now)
I have blue paint on my hands.
Because I have been painting.
Present Perfect Simple vs. Present Perfect Continuous.
"I have been reading this book."
"I have read this book."
Some verbs describe a state, not an action (e.g., know, like, believe, belong). These verbs rarely take the continuous form.
Test your skills. Select the best option.
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