Present Perfect

When we want to look back from the present to the past

1. To look back on the recent past

• The sales team has doubled its turnover.
• They have cancelled the meeting.
• I've broken my watch so I don't know what time it is.

When we look back on the recent past, we often use the words 'just' 'already' or the word 'yet' (in negatives and questions only).

• Have you spoken to him yet?
• They've already met.
• I've just done it.
• She hasn't arrived yet.
• We've already talked about that.

2. To look back on the more distant past

• We've mentioned it to them on several occasions over the last six months.
• She's done this type of project many times before.
• We've been to Singapore a lot over the last few years.

When we look back on the more distant past, we often use the words 'ever' (in questions) and 'never

• We've never considered investing in Mexico.
• I've never met Lisa and David.
• Have you ever been to Argentina?