This article delves into the nuances of the present perfect with already, since, for, yet, and just. For a more comprehensive understanding of the present perfect tense, consider exploring our in-depth guide dedicated to this particular tense.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The words “already, since, for, yet, just” are often used with the present perfect. Understanding their usage is crucial for effective communication. This article will explore the meanings of these words and how they are appropriately utilized with the present perfect tense.
Form of the Present Perfect Tense
Let’s begin by reviewing the structure of the present perfect tense:
Auxiliary "have" (in the simple present form) + Verb (in the past participle form)
Forms:
The different forms of the present perfect:
| Positive | Negative | Interrogative |
|---|---|---|
| I have done… | I have not done… | Have you done…? |
- Positive: I have done my part of the job.
- Negative: I have not done my part of the job.
- Interrogative: Have you done your part of the job?
Here are more examples:
- Have you written the report yet?
- No, I haven’t written the report yet.
- Yes, I have already written the report.
- She has just written the report.
- I have known her for a long time.
- I have known her since 2007.
Present Perfect with Already, Since, For, Yet, Just
Already
Definition: “Already” is an adverb indicating that something has occurred early or sooner than expected.
Position:
- “Already” typically comes between “have”/”has” and the past participle (mid position).
- It may also appear at the end of the sentence for emphasis or surprise, especially in informal speaking.
- Example: They’ve spent nearly a lot of money on it already.
- Front position usage for emphasis:
- Example: Already, the supporters of the newly elected president have occupied the streets to celebrate the event.
Since
Usage: You can use “since” when referring to a time or event in the past, indicating that a situation has persisted from then until now.
Position:
- “Since” is placed before the time when something began.
For
Purpose: “For” is employed to specify the duration of time something has lasted.
Position:
- “For” is used before a period of time, such as for two years, for a long time, for a week, etc.
Yet
Usage: “Yet” is utilized in negative sentences to convey that something has not happened up to the present time. It is also employed in interrogative forms to inquire if something has happened up to the present time.
Position:
- “Yet” typically comes at the end of the sentence.
Just
Usage: “Just” is used to signify that something occurred in the immediate past, a very short time ago.
Position:
- “Just” comes between “have”/”has” and the past participle (mid position).
Summary
This table provides a quick summary of the key terms related to the present perfect tense when used with “already, since, for, yet, just,” including their definitions and typical positions in sentences.
| Term | Definition | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Already | Adverb indicating something happened early or sooner than expected. | Mid position; end for emphasis or surprise; front for emphasis. |
| Since | Used when referring to a time or event in the past, indicating persistence until the present. | Before the time when something began. |
| For | Indicates the duration of time something has lasted. | Before a period of time (e.g., for two years). |
| Yet | Used in negative sentences to show something has not happened up to the present time. | Usually at the end of the sentence. |
| Just | Signifies that something happened in the immediate past, a very short time ago. | Mid position, between “have”/”has” and the past participle. |
More about this topic here.
Related Pages
For further exploration of perfect tenses, consider the present perfect continuous. Additionally, there is an exercise available on the present perfect simple and continuous.