| The present perfect continuous |
The present perfect simple |
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To talk about a continuous, It often focuses on the action itself but not necessarily finished action or situation.
- I have been gardening since morning. (Focus on continuity)
- I have been reading since morning. (Focus on continuity)
- I've been reading the book you recommended. (I'm enjoying it, but I'm not finished).
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To talk about a finished action or situation.
- I have planted several new saplings. (Focus on completion)
- I have read two books since morning. (Focus on completion)
- I've read the book you recommended. (I've finished it, so we can talk about it).
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It doesn't matter if the whole action is finished or not. The result is often something we can see, hear, smell, or feel:
- I've been eating dinner, so there are plates all over the table.
- She's been doing her homework, so she's tired.
- I've been making a cake, that's why the kitchen is such a mess.
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The present perfect simple is used when the action is finished, and the result comes from the action being finished:
- I've eaten dinner, so let's go out.
- She's done all her homework, so she can relax this evening.
- I've made a cake. Would you like some?
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To emphasise the length of time that has passed.
- They've been waiting for hours! (This emphasises the length of time).
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Generally neutral, not emphasize the length of time
- They've waited for hours. (This doesn't emphasise the length of time).
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Can not use to talk about how much, how many or life exprerience because it focus on the duration, not result.
She's been drinking three cups of coffee this morning. (Not correct)
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To talk about how much or how many or life exprerience.
- She's drunk three cups of coffee this morning.
- She's drunk at least a litre of coffee today.
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To emphasise that something is temporary.
- She's been running a lot recently. (She doesn't usually do this).
- Usually I study at home, but I've been studying in the library for the last week.
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