1. Overview:
The present perfect continuous tense is used to show that an action started in the past and has continued up to now or has recently stopped. It emphasizes the duration or ongoing nature of the action.
2. Forms:
Positive form:
Use "have/has" followed by "been" and the verb in its -ing form.
Structure: subject + have/has + been + verb(-ing)
Examples:
She has been studying for the test.
We have been working on the project lately.
Negative form:
Use not between "have/has" and "been," followed by the verb in its -ing form.
Structure: subject + have/has + not + been + verb(-ing)
Examples:
She has not been studying for the test.
We haven't been working on the project lately.
Question form:
Place "have/has" before the subject, followed by "been" and the verb in its -ing form.
Structure: have/has + subject + been + verb(-ing)?
Examples:
Has he been exercising regularly?
Have they been waiting for a long time?
3. Cases of Usage:
Case 1: To show an action that started in the past and is still continuing now.
Example: I have been studying English for three years.
Case 2: To describe an action that has recently stopped but has a result now.
Example: She is tired because she has been running.
Case 3: To talk about repeated actions in the past that are still happening.
Example: They have been visiting their grandparents every weekend.
4. Exceptions or Things to Pay Attention To:
Not all verbs can be used in the present perfect continuous. Some verbs, called stative verbs (like know, believe, or love), do not use this form because they describe states rather than actions.
Example: I have known her for a long time. (not "have been knowing")
5. Additional Notes:
Common mistakes include confusing the present perfect continuous with the present perfect tense. Remember, the present perfect continuous focuses on the duration or activity, while the present perfect focuses on the result of the action. For example, "I have worked here" (result) vs. "I have been working here" (duration).
