Tenses occur only in verbs. Although it is usual to talk about the past, present and other tenses, it refers to the change that takes place in the form of the verb to indicate time.
Table of Contents
THE SIMPLE PRESENT TENSE
It is used to express habitual truth, eternal truth, what is fixed and present action.
EXAMPLES:
Sule always smokes after meals.
The bus arrives at 8 a.m.
The sun sets in the West.
PRESENT CONTINOUS TENSE
It is progressive. It is formed by adding –ing to the main verb. The auxiliary verb should be in the present tense.
EXAMPLES
Ronke is reading now.
Mayowa is carrying a table.
She is enjoying the sweet snacks.
PRESENT PERFECT TENSE
The perfective aspect is formed by combining a form of the verb ‘have’ with the main verb in the past participial form. ‘Have’ remains in the present tense
EXAMPLES:
I have been to Lagos.
Tunde has eaten his food
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINOUS TENSE
It is the combination of the progressive and perfective aspect.
EXAMPLES:
I have been coming to this place now for two years.
I have been attending Good Shepherd School since primary school
EVALUATION
Write ten sentences, highlighting the following types of verb tenses: :PresentTense, PresentContinuous, Present Perfect Continuous Tense.
See also