The present perfect continuous

The present perfect continuous (P.P.C)

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​Use the p.p.c to express a continuing action that began in the past and continues in the present.

Depending on the context, the action may continue in the future.

Use have / has + been + present participle.

​Example:

He's been practicing skateboarding for years.​

Has she been dancing ballet for a long time?​

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​for (three months)

​for a while

since (2014)​

prepositions/ adverbs

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lately

recently

all day​

Adverbs, determiner

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​these days

this (month)

How long...?​

​​Determiners

The p.p.c rather than the present perfect is generally used to describe a recent continuous action, especially when there is visible evidence that the action just ended.

Example. The car's door is opened. Matt has been driving it.

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Note:

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• ​Write sentences, using the present perfect continuous.

• Use contractions when possible. Use correct punctuation.

• Think if it's possible to change the sentences to the p.p.c. Explain when it's not possible.​

Open Ended

He's played with his band for almost ten years.

Open Ended

She's looked online this morning for a good deal on show tickets.

Open Ended

Justin Timberlake has already given two concerts in my town.

Open Ended

Have you ever visited the Museum of Contemporary Art?

Complete the questions, using the p.p.c when possible. Otherwise use the p. perfect.

Exercise