Let's Talk Tenses

Let’s Talk
Tenses - Quick & Simple Guide to English Tenses
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Contents
Preface …………………………………………………………….………...………………….…3
Sentence & Tense Forming ………….……………………………………...…………………….4
Tense Timeline ………….…………………………………………………….…………………..11
1. Present Simple ………….…………………………………………………….……………....12
Stative Verbs (Non-Continuous Verbs) …………………………………………….………..…... 13
2. Past Simple …………………………………………………………………………………...16
3. Future Simple ………...………………………….……………….…………………………..18
4. Present Perfect ………...…………….…………….…………….……………………………20
5. Past Perfect ………...…………….…………….…………….…………….………….……...22
6. Future Perfect ………...……….…………….…………….…………….….………………...24
7. Present Continuous …….…………….…………….…………….…...…………….………...26
8. Past Continuous ………...………….…………….…………….……………………………..28
9. Future Continuous ………...………….…………….…………….………….……….………31
10. Present Perfect Continuous ……….…………….…………….………………...………...…. 34
11. Past Perfect Continuous ………...….…………….…………….………………...….…….….36
12. Future Perfect Continuous ………....…………….…………….………...….………………..38
13. Used to ………........………………….…………….………………….…………….…….… 41
14. Would always ……..…...…………….…………….…………….……………….…..………42
15. Future in the Past ………...……….…………….…………….……………….………...……43
16. Were to ………........………………….…………….…………….………………..….….…..44
17. Present Conditional ………...…….…………….…………….…………………….……..…. 45
18. Past Conditional …………...………….…………….…………….…………….….………... 47
19. Future Conditional …………...…….…………….…………….………………….……..….. 49
20. Continuous Conditional ………...….…………….…………….……………….………...…. 52
21. Mixed Conditional …………...……….…………….…………….…………….…….……... 54
22. Modal Verbs …………...…………….…………….…………….……………….….…….…56
Verb Definitions …………...…………….…………….…………….……..………….….………73
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Preface
Let’s Talk Tenses - Quick & Simple Guide to English Tenses is designed to help you understand and
use tenses accurately. Learning English tenses can seem difficult at first, but all you need to do
is remember a few sentence-structures, and learn a few simple rules.
Speaking a language with any degree of fluency requires a knowledge of idioms, proverbs, slang,
fixed expressions, and tenses of course.
The purpose of this book is to help learners develop the necessary grammar skills to form complete
and accurate sentences.
English grammar is not always easy to understand, but by using this guide book you should be able
to remind yourself of the rules of English usage and speak or write English with confidence.
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Sentence & Tense Forming
Sentence Structure
1. SV v.i. I listen. He listens to you. You are listening to me.
2. SVO v.t. I post pictures. He posts pictures. You are posting pictures.
3. SVAdj v.l. I am hardworking. He is hardworking. You were hardworking.
4. SVAdv v.l. I am at work. He is at work. You were at work.
5. SVN v.l. I am a sales rep. He is a sales rep. You were a sales rep.
Tense Forming
SV (Active Voice)
v.aux v.i./v.t.
1. Present - V1/Vs I listen to you. He listens to you.
2. Past Simple - V2 I listened to you. He listened to you.
3. Future will + V1 I will listen to you. He will listen to you.
4. Present have / has + V3 I have listened to you. He listened to you.

5. Past Perfect had + V3 I had listened to you. He had listened to you.
6. Future will + have + V3 I will have listened to you. He will have listened to you.
7. Present am / are / is + Ving I am listening to you. He is listening to you.

8. Past Continuous was / were / was + Ving I was listening to you. He was listening to you.
9. Future will + be + Ving I will be listening to you. He will be listening to you.
10. Present have / has + been + Ving I have been listening to you. He has been listening to you.
11. Past Perfect had + been + Ving I had been listening to you. He had been listening to you.
12. Future Continuous will + have + been + Ving I will have been listening to He will have been listening to
you. you.
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SVO (Active Voice)
v.aux v.i./v.t.
1. Present - V1/Vs I post pictures on Facebook. He posts a picture on Facebook.
2. Past Simple - V2 I posted pictures... He posted a picture...
3. Future will + V1 I will post pictures… He will post a picture...
4. Present have / has + V3 I have posted pictures... He has posted a picture...

5. Past Perfect had + V3 I had posted pictures... He had posted a picture...
6. Future will + have + V3 I will have posted pictures... He will have posted a picture...
7. Present am / are / is + Ving I am posting pictures... He is posting a picture...

8. Past Cont. was / were / was + Ving I was posting pictures... He was posting a picture...
9. Future will + be + Ving I will be posting pictures... He will be posting a picture...
10. Present have / has + been + Ving I have been posting pictures... He has been posting a picture...
11. Past Perfect had + been + Ving I had been posting pictures... He had been posting a picture...
12. Future Cont. will + have + been + Ving I will have been posting He will have been posting a
pictures... picture...
SVO (Passive Voice)

v.aux v.t.
1. Present am / are / is + V3 Pictures are posted on A picture is posted on
Facebook by me. Facebook by him.
Simple
2. Past was / were / was + V3 Pictures were posted … A picture was posted …
3. Future will + be + V3 Pictures will be posted … A picture will be posted …
4. Present have / has + been + V3 Pictures have been posted … A picture has been posted …
5. Past had + been + V3 Pictures had been posted … A picture had been posted …
Perfect
6. Future will + have + been + V3 Pictures will have been posted A picture will have been posted
… …
7. Present am / are / is + being + V3 Pictures are being posted … A picture is being posted …
8. Past was / were / was + being + V3 Pictures were being posted … A picture was being posted …
Cont.
9. Future will + be + being + V3 Pictures will be being posted A picture will be being posted
… …
10. Present have / has + been + being V3 Pictures have been being A picture has been being posted
+ posted … …
11. Past Perfect had + been + being + V3 Pictures had been being A picture had been being posted
Cont. posted … …
12. Future will+have+been+being+ V3 Pictures will have been being A picture will have been being
posted … posted …
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SVAdj/Adv/N (Active Voice)
v.aux
1. Present am / are / is + You are hardworking. She is hardworking.
2. Past Simple was / were / was + You were hardworking. She was hardworking.
3. Future will + be + You will be hardworking. She will be hardworking.
4. Present have / has + been + You have been hardworking. She has been hardworking.
5. Past had + been + You had been hardworking. She had been hardworking.
Perfect
6. Future will + have + been + You will have been She will have been
hardworking. hardworking.
7. Present am / are / is + being + You are being hardworking. She is being hardworking.
8. Past Cont. was / were / was + being + You were being hardworking. She was being hardworking.
9. Future will + be + being + You will be being hardworking. She will be being hardworking.
10. Present have / has + been + being + You have been being She has been being
11. Past Perfect had + been + being + You had been being She had been being
Cont. hardworking. hardworking.
12. Future will+have+been+being+ You will have been being She will have been being
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Negative & Question Forming
Present Simple
SV/SVO
+ S + v1/vs I work. He works.
- S + do/does + not + v1 I do not work. He does not work.
-c S + don’t/doesn’t + v1 I don’t work. He doesn’t work.
+? Do/Does + S + v1? Do I work? Does he work?
-? Do/Does + S + not + v1? Do I not work? Does he not work?
- ?c Don’t/Doesn’t + S + v1? Don’t I work? Doesn’t he work?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + am/are/is I am rude. He is rude.
- S + am/are/is + not I am not rude. He is not rude.
-c S + am not/aren’t/isn’t I am not rude. He isn’t rude.
+? Am/Are/Is + S? Am I rude? Is he rude?
-? Am/Are/Is + S + not? Am I not rude? Is he not rude?
- ?c Am/Aren’t/Isn’t + S? Am I not rude? Isn’t he rude?
Past Simple
SV/SVO
+ S + v2 I worked. He worked.
- S + did + not + v1 I did not work. He did not work.
-c S + didn’t + v1 I didn’t work. He didn’t work.
+? Did + S + v1? Did I work? Did he work?
-? Did + S + not + v1? Did I not work? Did he not work?
- ?c Didn’t + S + v1? Didn’t I work? Didn’t he work?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + was/were/was I was rude. You were rude.
- S + am/are/is + not I was not rude. You were not rude.
-c S + am not/aren’t/isn’t I wasn’t rude. You weren’t rude.
+? Was/Were/Was + S? Was I rude? Were you rude?
-? Am/Are/Is + S + not? Was I not rude? Were you not rude?
- ?c Am/Aren’t/Isn’t + S? Wasn’t I rude? Weren’t you rude?
Future Simple
SV/SVO
+ S + will + v1 I will work. He will work.
- S + will + not + v1 I will not work. He will not work.
-c S + don’t/doesn’t + v1 I won’t work. He won’t work.
+? Will + S + v1? Will I work? Will he work?
-? Will + S + not + v1? Will I not work? Will he not work?
- ?c Won’t + S + v1? Won’t I work? Won’t he work?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + will + be I will be rude. He will be rude.
- S + will + not + be I will not be rude. He will not be rude.
-c S + won’t + be I won’t be rude. He won’t be rude.
+? Will + S + be? Will I be rude? Will he be rude?
-? Will + S + not + be? Will I not be rude? Will he not be rude?
- ?c Won’t + S + be? Won’t I be rude? Won’t he be rude?
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Present Perfect
SV/SVO
+ S + have/has + v3 I have worked. He has worked.
- S + have/has + not + v3 I have not worked. He has not worked.
-c S + haven’t/hasn’t + v3 I haven’t worked. He hasn’t worked.
+? Have/Has + S + v3? Have I worked? Has he worked?
-? Have/Has + S + not + v3? Have I not worked? Has he not worked?
- ?c Haven’t/Hasn’t + S + v3? Haven’t I worked? Hasn’t he worked?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + have/has + been I have been rude. He has been rude.
- S + have/has + not + been I have not been rude. He has not been rude.
-c S + haven’t/hasn’t + been I haven’t been rude. He hasn’t been rude.
+? Have/Has + S + been? Have I been rude? Has he been rude?
-? Have/Has + S + not + been? Have I not been rude? Has he not been rude?
- ?c Haven’t/Hasn’t + S + been? Haven’t I been rude? Hasn’t he been rude?
Past Perfect
SV/SVO
+ S + had + v3 I had worked. He had worked.
- S + had + not + v3 I had not worked. He had not worked.
-c S + hadn’t + v3 I hadn’t worked. He hadn’t worked.
+? Had + S + v3? Had I worked? Had he worked?
-? Had + S + not + v3? Had I not worked? Had he not worked?
- ?c Hadn’t + S + v3? Hadn’t I worked? Hadn’t he worked?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + had + been I had been rude. He had been rude.
- S + had + not + been I had not been rude. He had not been rude.
-c S + hadn’t + been I hadn’t been rude. He hadn’t been rude.
+? Had + S + been? Had I been rude? Had he been rude?
-? Had + S + not + been? Had I not been rude? Had he not been rude?
- ?c Hadn’t + S + been? Hadn’t I been rude? Hadn’t he been rude?
Future Perfect
SV/SVO
+ S + will + have/has + v3 I will have worked. He will have worked.
- S + will + not + have/has + v3 I will not have worked. He will not have worked.
-c S + won’t + have + v3 I won’t have worked. He won’t have worked.
+? Will + S + have + v3? Will I have worked? Will he have worked?
-? Will + S + not + have + v3? Will I not have worked? Will he not have worked?
- ?c Won’t + S + have + v3? Won’t I have worked? Won’t he have worked?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + will + have/has + been I will have been rude. He will have been rude.
- S + will + not + have/has + been I will not have been rude. He will not have been rude.
-c S + won’t + have + been I won’t have been rude. He won’t have been rude.
+? Will + S + have + been? Will I have been rude? Will he have been rude?
-? Will + S + not + have + been? Will I not have been rude? Will he not have been rude?
- ?c Won’t + S + have + been? Won’t I have been rude? Won’t he have been rude?
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Present Continuous
SV/SVO
+ S + am/are/is + ving I am working. He is working.
- S + am/are/is + not + ving I am not working. He is not working.
-c S + am not/aren’t/isn’t + ving I am not working. He isn’t working.
+? Am/Are/Is + S + ving? Am I working? Is he working?
-? Am/Are/Is + S + not + ving? Am I not working? Is he not working?
- ?c Am/Aren’t/Isn’t + S + ving? Am I not working? Isn’t he working?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + am/are/is + being I am being rude. He is being rude.
- S + am/are/is + not + being I am not being rude. He is not being rude.
-c S + am not/aren’t/isn’t + being I am not being rude. He isn’t being rude.
+? Am/Are/Is + S + being? Am I being rude? Is he being rude?
-? Am/Are/Is + S + not + being? Am I not being rude? Is he not being rude?
- ?c Am/Aren’t/Isn’t + S + being? Am I not being rude? Isn’t he being rude?
Past Continuous
SV/SVO
+ S + was/were/was + ving I was working. You were working.
- S + am/are/is + not + ving I was not working. You were not working.
-c S + am not/aren’t/isn’t + ving I wasn’t working. You weren’t working.
+? Was/Were/Was + S + ving? Was I working? Were you working?
-? Am/Are/Is + S + not + ving? Was I not working? Were you not working?
- ?c Am/Aren’t/Isn’t + S + ving? Wasn’t I working? Weren’t you working?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + was/were/was + being I was being rude. You were being rude.
- S + am/are/is + not + being I was not being rude. You were not being rude.
-c S + am not/aren’t/isn’t + being I wasn’t being rude. You weren’t being rude.
+? Was/Were/Was + S + being? Was I being rude? Were you being rude?
-? Am/Are/Is + S + not + being? Was I not being rude? Were you not being rude?
- ?c Am/Aren’t/Isn’t + S + being? Wasn’t I being rude? Weren’t you being rude?
Future Continuous
SV/SVO
+ S + will + be + ving I will be working. He will be working.
- S + will + not + be + ving I will not be working. He will not be working.
-c S + won’t + be + ving I won’t be working. He won’t be working.
+? Will + S + be + ving? Will I be working? Will he be working?
-? Will + S + not + be + ving? Will I not be working? Will he not be working?
- ?c Won’t + S + be + ving? Won’t I be working? Won’t he be working?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + will + be + being I will be being rude. He will be being rude.
- S + will + not + be + being I will not be being rude. He will not be being rude.
-c S + won’t + be + being I won’t be being rude. He won’t be being rude.
+? Will + S + be + being? Will I be being rude? Will he be being rude?
-? Will + S + not + be + being? Will I not be being rude? Will he not be being rude?
- ?c Won’t + S + be + being? Won’t I be being rude? Won’t he be being rude?
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Present Perfect Continuous
SV/SVO
+ S + have/has + been + ving I have been working. He has been working.
- S + have/has + not + been + ving I have not been working. He has not been working.
-c S + haven’t/hasn’t + been + ving I haven’t been working. He hasn’t been working.
+? Have/Has + S + been + ving? Have I been working? Has he been working?
-? Have/Has + S + not + been + ving? Have I not been working? Has he not been working?
- ?c Haven’t/Hasn’t + S + been + ving? Haven’t I been working? Hasn’t he been working?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + have/has + been + being I have been being rude. He has been being rude.
- S + have/has + not + been + being I have not been being rude. He has not been being rude.
-c S + haven’t/hasn’t + been + being I haven’t been being rude. He hasn’t been being rude.
+? Have/Has + S + been + being? Have I been being rude? Has he been being rude?
-? Have/Has + S + not + been + being? Have I not been being sad? Has he not been being rude?
- ?c Haven’t/Hasn’t + S + been + being? Haven’t I been being rude? Hasn’t he been being rude?
Past Perfect Continuous

SV/SVO
+ S + had + been + ving I had been working. He had been working.
- S + had + not + been + ving I had not been working. He had not been working.
-c S + hadn’t + been + ving I hadn’t been working. He hadn’t been working.
+? Had + S + been + ving? Had I been working? Had he been working?
-? Had + S + not + been + ving? Had I not been working? Had he not been working?
- ?c Hadn’t + S + been + ving? Hadn’t I been working? Hadn’t he been working?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + had + been + being I had been being rude. He had been being rude.
- S + had + not + been + being I had not been being rude. He had not been being rude.
-c S + hadn’t + been + being I hadn’t been being rude. He hadn’t been being rude.
+? Had + S + been + being? Had I been being rude? Had he been being rude?
-? Had + S + not + been + being? Had I not been being rude? Had he not been being rude?
- ?c Hadn’t + S + been + being? Hadn’t I been being rude? Hadn’t he been being rude?
Future Perfect
SV/SVO
+ S + will + have/has + been + ving I will have been working. He will have been working.
- S + will + not + have/has + been + ving I will not have been working. He will not have been working.
-c S + won’t + have + been + ving I won’t have been working. He won’t have been working.
+? Will + S + have + been + ving? Will I have been working? Will he have been working?
-? Will + S + not + have + been + ving? Will I not have been working? Will he not have been working?
- ?c Won’t + S + have + been + ving? Won’t I have been working? Won’t he have been working?
SVAdj/SVAdv/SVN
+ S + will + have/has + been + being I will have been being rude. He will have been being rude.
- S + will + not + have/has + been + being I will not have been being rude. He will not have been being rude.
-c S + won’t + have + been + being I won’t have been being rude. He won’t have been being rude.
+? Will + S + have + been + being? Will I have been being rude? Will he have been being rude?
-? Will + S + not + have + been + being? Will I not have been being rude? Will he not have been being rude?
- ?c Won’t + S + have + been + being? Won’t I have been being rude? Won’t he have been being rude?
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Tense Timeline
TIMELINE TENSE USE
Repeated Actions
PRESENT SIMPLE
Generalizations
Actions Happening Now

PRESENT CONTINUOUS
Actions Happening
Around Now
Completed Action
PAST SIMPLE
How Long
PAST CONTINUOUS Interrupted Action
Unspecified Time
PRESENT PERFECT
How Long
PRESENT PERFECT
How Long
CONTINUOUS
Past Before the Past

PAST PERFECT
How Long
PAST PERFECT
How Long
CONTINUOUS
FUTURE
Completed Action Before

FUTURE PERFECT
Future Action
FUTURE PERFECT How Long Before Future

CONTINUOUS Action
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1. PRESENT SIMPLE TENSE
USE 1: REPEATED ACTION
Use the Simple Present to express the idea that an action is repeated or usual. It can also be something
a person often forgets or usually does not do.
Example:
Habit: She always forgets her purse.
Hobby: I play tennis.
Scheduled Event: The train leaves every morning at 8 AM.
USE 2: FACTS OR GENERALIZATIONS
The Simple Present can also indicate the speaker believes that a fact is true and is also used to make
generalizations about people or things.
Example:
Fact: California is in America.
Generalization: Cats like milk.
USE 3: SCHEDULED EVENTS IN THE NEAR FUTURE
Speakers occasionally use Simple Present to talk about scheduled events in the near future.
Example:
The train leaves tonight at 6 PM.
USE 4: NOW (NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS)
Speakers sometimes use the Simple Present to express the idea that an action is happening or is not
happening now. This can only be done with Non-Continuous Verbs and certain Mixed Verbs.
Example:
I am here now.
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Stative Verbs
(Non-Continuous Verbs)
Some verbs are only formed as simple tenses but refers to continuous tenses, these verbs are called
stative, or state verbs. A verb which isn’t stative is called a dynamic verb and is usually an action.
Stative verbs are verbs that express a state rather than an action. They usually relate to thoughts,
emotions, relationships, senses, states of being and measurements.
Stative verbs can’t be written as continuous form, for example:
like
I like reading detective stories. (correct)
I am liking reading detective stories. (incorrect)
Here are some examples of stative verbs:

1. agree = She agrees with us.
2. appear = It appears to be raining.
3. believe = I don’t believe the news.
4. belong = This book belongs to me.
5. concern = This concerns you.
6. consist = Bread consists of flour, water and yeast.
7. contain = This box contains a cake.
8. depend = It depends on the weather.
9. deserve = He deserves to pass the exam.
10. disagree = I disagree with you.
11. dislike = I have disliked mushrooms for years.
12. doubt = I doubt what you are saying.
13. feel (have an opinion) = I don’t feel that this is a good idea.
14. fit = This shirt fits me well.
15. hate = Julie’s always hated dogs.
16. hear = Do you hear the music?
17. imagine = I imagine you must be tired.
18. impress = He impressed me with his story.
19. include = This cookbook includes a recipe for bread.
20. involve = The job involves a lot of travelling.
21. know = I’ve known Julie for ten years.
22. like = I like reading detective stories.
23. love = I love chocolate.
24. matter = It doesn’t matter.
25. mean = ‘Huge’ means ‘very big’.
26. measure (be long) = This door measures 200cm.
27. mind = She doesn’t mind the noise.
28. need = I need you to take a taxi.
29. owe = I owe you £20.
30. own = She owns two cats.
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31. prefer = I prefer chocolate ice cream.
32. promise = I promise to help you tomorrow.
33. realize = I didn’t realize the problem.
34. recognize = I didn’t recognize my old friend.
35. remember = He didn’t remember my name.
36. seem = The grades seem to be improving.
37. sound = Your idea sounds great.
38. suppose = I suppose John will be late.
39. surprise = The noise surprised me.
40. understand = I don’t understand this question.
41. want = I want to go to the concert tonight.
42. weigh (have weight) = She weighs 45kg.
43. wish = I wish I had studied more.
Some verbs can be both stative and dynamic:
be
be is usually a stative verb, but when it is used in the continuous it means ‘behaving’ or ‘acting’
You are stupid. = it’s part of your personality
You are being stupid. = only now, not usually
have
have (stative) = own
I have a car.
have (dynamic) = part of an expression
I’m having a party / a picnic / a bath / a good time.
see
see (stative) = see with your eyes / understand
I see what you mean.
I see her now, she’s just coming along the road.
see (dynamic) = meet / have a relationship with
I’ve been seeing my boyfriend for three years.
I’m seeing Jane tomorrow.
taste also: smell, feel, look

taste (stative) = has a certain taste
These noodles taste great.
taste (dynamic) = the action of tasting
The chef is tasting the soup.
Think
think (stative) = have an opinion
I think that coffee is great.
think (dynamic) = consider, have in my head
What are you thinking about? I’m thinking about my homework.
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ADVERB PLACEMENT
The examples below show the placement for grammar adverbs such as: always, only, never, ever,
still, just, etc.
Examples:
You only speak English.
Do you only speak English?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Once a week, Tom cleans the car. ACTIVE
Once a week, the car is cleaned by Tom. PASSIVE
15
2. PAST SIMPLE TENSE
USE 1: COMPLETED ACTION IN THE PAST
Use the Simple Past to express the idea that an action started and finished at a specific time in the
past. Sometimes, the speaker may not actually mention the specific time, but they do have one specific
time in mind.
Example:
I saw a movie yesterday.
USE 2: A SERIES OF COMPLETED ACTIONS
We use the Simple Past to list a series of completed actions in the past. These actions happened 1st,
2nd, 3rd, 4th, and so on.
Example:
I finished work, walked to the beach, and found a nice place to swim.
USE 3: DURATION IN PAST
The Simple Past can be used with a duration which starts and stops in the past. Duration is a longer
action often indicated by expressions such as: for two years, for five minutes, all day, all year, etc.
Example:
John studied Japanese for five years.
USE 4: HABITS IN THE PAST
The Simple Past can also be used to describe a habit which stopped in the past. It can have the same
meaning as "used to." To make it clear that we are talking about a habit, we often add expressions
such as: always, often, usually, never, when I was a child, when I was younger, etc.
Example:
I studied French when I was a child.
16
USE 5: PAST FACTS OR GENERALIZATIONS
The Simple Past can also be used to describe past facts or generalizations which are no longer true.
As in USE 4 above, this use of the Simple Past is quite similar to the expression "used to."
Example:
Past Facts: I lived in Texas when I was a kid.
Past Generalizations: People paid much more to make cell phone calls in the past.
IMPORTANT WHEN-CLAUSES HAPPEN FIRST

Clauses are groups of words which have meaning but are often not complete sentences. Some clauses
begin with the word "when" such as "when I dropped my pen..." or "when class began..." These
clauses are called when-clauses, and they are very important. The examples below contain when-
clauses.
Example:
When I paid her one dollar, she answered my question.
She answered my question when I paid her one dollar.
When-clauses are important because they always happen first when both clauses are in the Simple
Past. Both examples above mean the same thing: first, I paid her one dollar, and then, she answered
my question. It is not important whether "when I paid her one dollar" is at the beginning of the
sentence or at the end of the sentence. However, the example below has a different meaning. First,
she answered my question, and then, I paid her one dollar.
Example:
I paid her one dollar when she answered my question.
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You just called Debbie.
Did you just call Debbie?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Tom repaired the car. ACTIVE
The car was repaired by Tom. PASSIVE
17
3. FUTURE SIMPLE TENSE
Future Simple has two different forms in English: "will" and "be going to." Although the two forms
can sometimes be used interchangeably, they often express two very different meanings. These
different meanings might seem too abstract at first, but with time and practice, the differences will
become clear. Both "will" and "be going to" refer to a specific time in the future.
Example:
You will help him later.
USE 1: "WILL" TO EXPRESS A VOLUNTARY ACTION

"Will" often suggests that a speaker will do something voluntarily. A voluntary action is one the
speaker offers to do for someone else. Often, we use "will" to respond to someone else's complaint
or request for help. We also use "will" when we request that someone help us or volunteer to do
something for us. Similarly, we use "will not" or "won't" when we refuse to voluntarily do something.
Example:
I will send you the information when I get it.
USE 2: "WILL" TO EXPRESS A PROMISE

"Will" is usually used in promises.
Example:
I will call you when I arrive.
If I am elected President of the United States, I will make sure everyone has access to inexpensive
health insurance.
USE 3: "BE GOING TO" TO EXPRESS A PLAN

"Be going to" expresses that something is a plan. It expresses the idea that a person intends to do
something in the future. It does not matter whether the plan is realistic or not.
Example:
He is going to spend his vacation in Hawaii.
I'm going to be an actor when I grow up.
USE 4: "WILL" OR "BE GOING TO" TO EXPRESS A PREDICTION

Both "will" and "be going to" can express the idea of a general prediction about the future. Predictions
are guesses about what might happen in the future. In "prediction" sentences, the subject usually has
little control over the future and therefore USES 1-3 do not apply. In the following examples, there
is no difference in meaning.
18
Example:
John Smith will be the next President.
John Smith is going to be the next President.
IMPORTANT
In the Simple Future, it is not always clear which USE the speaker has in mind. Often, there is more
than one way to interpret a sentence's meaning.
NO FUTURE IN TIME CLAUSES

Like all future forms, the Simple Future cannot be used in clauses beginning with time expressions
such as: when, while, before, after, by the time, as soon as, if, unless, etc. Instead of Simple
Future, Simple Present is used.
Example:
When you will arrive tonight, we will go out for dinner. Not Correct
When you arrive tonight, we will go out for dinner. Correct
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You will never help him.
Will you ever help him?
You are never going to meet Jane.
Are you ever going to meet Jane?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
John will finish the work by 5:00 PM. ACTIVE
The work will be finished by 5:00 PM. PASSIVE
Sally is going to make a beautiful dinner tonight. ACTIVE
A beautiful dinner is going to be made by Sally tonight. PASSIVE
19
4. PRESENT PERFECT TENSE
USE 1: UNSPECIFIED TIME BEFORE NOW
We use the Present Perfect to say that an action happened at an unspecified time before now. The
exact time is not important. You CAN’T use the Present Perfect with specific time expressions such
as: yesterday, one year ago, last week, when I was a child, when I lived in Japan, at that moment, that
day, one day, etc. We CAN use the Present Perfect with unspecific expressions such as: ever, never,
once, many times, several times, before, so far, already, yet, etc.
Example:
I have seen that movie twenty times.
Remember, the exact time the action happened is not important. Sometimes, we want to limit the time
we are looking in for an experience. We can do this with expressions such as: in the last week, in the
last year, this week, this month, so far, up to now, etc.
Example:
I have seen that movie six times in the last month.
TOPIC 1: EXPERIENCE
You can use the Present Perfect to describe your experience.
Example:
I have been to France.
THIS SENTENCE MEANS THAT YOU HAVE HAD THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING IN FRANCE. MAYBE YOU HAVE BEEN
THERE ONCE OR SEVERAL TIMES.
I have never been to France.
THIS SENTENCE MEANS THAT YOU HAVE NOT HAD THE EXPERIENCE OF GOING TO FRANCE.
TOPIC 2: CHANGE OVER TIME

We often use the Present Perfect to talk about change that has happened over a period of time.
Example:
You have grown since the last time I saw you.
TOPIC 3: ACCOMPLISHMENTS
We often use the Present Perfect to list the accomplishments of individuals and humanity. You cannot
mention a specific time.
Example:
Our son has learned how to read.
20
TOPIC 4: AN UNCOMPLETED ACTION YOU ARE EXPECTING
We often use the Present Perfect to say that an action which we expected has not happened. (Negative
Form)
Example:
John has not finished his homework yet.
TOPIC 5: MULTIPLE ACTIONS AT DIFFERENT TIMES

We also use the Present Perfect to talk about several different actions which have occurred in the past
at different times. Present Perfect suggests the process is not complete and more actions are possible.
Example:
I have had four quizzes and five tests so far this semester.
USE 2: DURATION FROM THE PAST UNTIL NOW (NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS)
With Non-Continuous Verbs and non-continuous uses of Mixed Verbs, we use the Present Perfect to
show that something started in the past and has continued up until now. "For five minutes," "for two
weeks," and "since Tuesday" are all durations which can be used with the Present Perfect.
Example:
She has been in England for six months.
Although the above use of Present Perfect is normally limited to Non-Continuous Verbs and non-
continuous uses of Mixed Verbs, the words "live," "work," "teach," and "study" are sometimes used
in this way even though they are NOT Non-Continuous Verbs.
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You have only seen that movie one time.
Have you only seen that movie one time?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Many tourists have visited that castle. ACTIVE
That castle has been visited by many tourists. PASSIVE
21
5. PAST PERFECT TENSE
USE 1: COMPLETED ACTION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE PAST
The Past Perfect expresses the idea that something occurred before another action in the past. It can
also show that something happened before a specific time in the past.
Example:
Tony knew Istanbul so well because he had visited the city several times.
USE 2: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE PAST (NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS)
With Non-Continuous Verbs and some non-continuous uses of Mixed Verbs, we use the Past Perfect
to show that something started in the past and continued up until another action in the past.
Example:
We had had that car for ten years before it broke down.
Although the above use of Past Perfect is normally limited to Non-Continuous Verbs and non-
IMPORTANT: SPECIFIC TIMES WITH THE PAST PERFECT
Unlike with the Present Perfect, it is possible to use specific time words or phrases with the Past
Perfect. Although this is possible, it is usually not necessary.
Example:
She had visited her Thai relatives once in 2013 before she moved in with them in 2016.
MOREOVER
If the Past Perfect action did occur at a specific time, the Simple Past can be used instead of the Past
Perfect when "before" or "after" is used in the sentence. The words "before" and "after" actually tell
you what happens first, so the Past Perfect is optional. For this reason, both sentences below are
correct.
Example:
She had visited her Thai relatives once in 2013 before she moved in with them in 2016.
She visited her Japanese relatives once in 2013 before she moved in with them in 2016.
22
HOWEVER
If the Past Perfect is not referring to an action at a specific time, Past Perfect is not optional. Compare
the examples below. Here Past Perfect is referring to a lack of experience rather than an action at a
specific time. For this reason, Simple Past cannot be used.
Example:
She never saw a bear before she moved to Alaska. Not Correct
She had never seen a bear before she moved to Alaska. Correct
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You had previously studied English before you moved to New York.
Had you previously studied English before you moved to New York?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
George had repaired many cars before he received his mechanic's license. ACTIVE
Many cars had been repaired by George before he received his mechanic's license. PASSIVE
23
6. FUTURE PERFECT TENSE
Future Perfect has two different forms: "will have done" and "be going to have done." Unlike Simple
Future forms, Future Perfect forms are usually interchangeable.
USE 1: COMPLETED ACTION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE
The Future Perfect expresses the idea that something will occur before another action in the future. It
can also show that something will happen before a specific time in the future.
Example:
By the time I finish this course, I will have taken ten tests.
By the time he gets home, she is going to have cleaned the entire house.
Notice in the examples above that the reference points (marked in italics) are in Simple Present rather
than Simple Future. This is because the interruptions are in time clauses, and you cannot use future
tenses in time clauses.
USE 2: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE (NON-CONTINUOUS

VERBS)
With Non-Continuous Verbs and some non-continuous uses of Mixed Verbs, we use the Future
Perfect to show that something will continue up until another action in the future.
Example:
I will have been in London for six months by the time I leave.
By Monday, Susan is going to have had my book for a week.
Although the above use of Future Perfect is normally limited to Non-Continuous Verbs and non-
REMEMBER NO FUTURE IN TIME CLAUSES

Like all future forms, the Future Perfect cannot be used in clauses beginning with time expressions
such as: when, while, before, after, by the time, as soon as, if, unless, etc. Instead of Future
Perfect, Present Perfect is used.
Example:
I am going to see a movie when I will have finished my homework. Not Correct
I am going to see a movie when I have finished my homework. Correct
24
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You will only have learned a few words.
Will you only have learned a few words?
You are only going to have learned a few words.
Are you only going to have learned a few words?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
They will have completed the project before the deadline. ACTIVE
The project will have been completed before the deadline. PASSIVE
They are going to have completed the project before the deadline. ACTIVE
The project is going to have been completed before the deadline. PASSIVE
25
7. PRESENT CONTINUOUS TENSE
USE 1: NOW
Use the Present Continuous with Normal Verbs to express the idea that something is happening now,
at this very moment. It can also be used to show that something is not happening now.
Example:
You are learning English now.
USE 2: LONGER ACTIONS IN PROGRESS NOW
In English "now" can mean: this second, today, this month, this year, this century, and so on.
Sometimes, we use the Present Continuous to say that we are in the process of doing a longer action
which is in progress; however, we might not be doing it at this exact second.
Example:
I am studying to become a doctor.
USE 3: NEAR FUTURE
Sometimes, speakers use the Present Continuous to indicate that something will or will not happen in
the near future.
Example:
I am meeting some friends after work.
USE 4: REPETITIONS AND IRRITATION WITH "ALWAYS"
The Present Continuous with words such as "always" or "constantly" expresses the idea that
something irritating or shocking often happens. Notice that the meaning is like Simple Present, but
with negative emotion. Remember to put the words "always" or "constantly" between "be" and
"verb+ing."
Example:
She is always coming to class late.
26
REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS/ MIXED VERBS
It is important to remember that Non-Continuous Verbs cannot be used in any continuous tenses
use Simple Present instead.
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You are still watching TV.
Are you still watching TV?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Right now, Tom is writing the letter. ACTIVE
Right now, the letter is being written by Tom. PASSIVE
27
8. PAST CONTINUOUS TENSE
USE 1: INTERRUPTED ACTION IN THE PAST
Use the Past Continuous to indicate that a longer action in the past was interrupted. The interruption
is usually a shorter action in the Simple Past. Remember this can be a real interruption or just an
interruption in time.
Example:
I was watching TV when she called.
USE 2: SPECIFIC TIME AS AN INTERRUPTION
In USE 1, described above, the Past Continuous is interrupted by a shorter action in the Simple Past.
However, you can also use a specific time as an interruption.
Example:
Last night at 6 PM, I was eating dinner.
IMPORTANT
In the Simple Past, a specific time is used to show when an action began or finished. In the Past
Continuous, a specific time only interrupts the action.
Example:
Last night at 6 PM, I ate dinner.
I STARTED EATING AT 6 PM.
Last night at 6 PM, I was eating dinner.
I STARTED EARLIER; AND AT 6 PM, I WAS IN THE PROCESS OF EATING DINNER.
USE 3: PARALLEL ACTIONS
When you use the Past Continuous with two actions in the same sentence, it expresses the idea that
both actions were happening at the same time. The actions are parallel.
Example:
I was studying while he was making dinner.
They were eating dinner, discussing their plans, and having a good time.
28
USE 4: ATMOSPHERE
In English, we often use a series of parallel actions to describe the atmosphere at a particular time in
the past.
Example:
When I walked into the office, several people were busily typing, some were talking on the phones,
the boss was yelling directions, and customers were waiting to be helped. One customer was
yelling at a secretary and waving his hands. Others were complaining to each other about the bad
service.
USE 5: REPETITION AND IRRITATION WITH "ALWAYS"
The Past Continuous with words such as "always" or "constantly" expresses the idea that something
irritating or shocking often happened in the past. The concept is very similar to the expression "used
to" but with negative emotion. Remember to put the words "always" or "constantly" between "be"
and "verb+ing."
Example:
She was always coming to class late.
He was constantly talking. He annoyed everyone.
I didn't like them because they were always complaining.
WHILE VS. WHEN

Clauses are groups of words which have meaning but are often not complete sentences. Some clauses
begin with the word "when" such as "when she called" or "when it hit me." Other clauses begin with
"while" such as "while she was sleeping" and "while he was surfing." When you talk about things in
the past, "when" is most often followed by the verb tense Simple Past, whereas "while" is usually
followed by Past Continuous. "While" expresses the idea of "during that time." Study the examples
below. They have similar meanings, but they emphasize different parts of the sentence.
Example:
I was studying when she called.
While I was studying, she called.
REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

It is important to remember that Non-Continuous Verbs cannot be used in any continuous tenses.
Also, certain non-continuous meanings for Verbs cannot be used in continuous tenses. Instead of
using Past Continuous with these verbs, you must use Simple Past.
Example:
Jane was being at my house when you arrived. Not Correct
Jane was at my house when you arrived. Correct
29
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You were just studying when she called.
Were you just studying when she called?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
The salesman was helping the customer when the thief came into the store. ACTIVE
The customer was being helped by the salesman when the thief came into the store. PASSIVE
30
9. FUTURE CONTINUOUS TENSE
Future Continuous has two different forms: "will be doing " and "be going to be doing."
Unlike Simple Future forms, Future Continuous forms are usually interchangeable.
Example:
You will be waiting for her when her plane arrives tonight.
You are going to be waiting for her when her plane arrives tonight.
REMEMBER: It is possible to use either "will" or "be going to" to create the Future Continuous with
little difference in meaning.
USE 1: INTERRUPTED ACTION IN THE FUTURE
Use the Future Continuous to indicate that a longer action in the future will be interrupted by a shorter
action in the future. Remember this can be a real interruption or just an interruption in time.
Example:
I will be watching TV when she arrives tonight.
I am going to be staying at the Madison Hotel, if anything happens and you need to contact me.
Notice in the examples above that the interruptions (marked in italics) are in Simple Present rather
than Simple Future. This is because the interruptions are in time clauses, and you cannot use future
USE 2: SPECIFIC TIME AS AN INTERRUPTION IN THE FUTURE
In USE 1, described above, the Future Continuous is interrupted by a short action in the future. In
addition to using short actions as interruptions, you can also use a specific time as an interruption.
Example:
Tonight at 6 PM, I am going to be eating dinner.
I WILL BE IN THE PROCESS OF EATING DINNER.
At midnight tonight, we will still be driving through the desert.
WE WILL BE IN THE PROCESS OF DRIVING THROUGH THE DESERT.
REMEMBER: In the Simple Future, a specific time is used to show the time an action will begin or
end. In the Future Continuous, a specific time interrupts the action.
Example:
Tonight at 6 PM, I am going to eat dinner.
I AM GOING TO START EATING AT 6 PM.
Tonight at 6 PM, I am going to be eating dinner.
I AM GOING TO START EARLIER, AND I WILL BE IN THE PROCESS OF EATING DINNER AT 6 PM.
USE 3: PARALLEL ACTIONS IN THE FUTURE
31
When you use the Future Continuous with two actions in the same sentence, it expresses the idea that
both actions will be happening at the same time. The actions are parallel.
Example:
I am going to be studying and he is going to be making dinner.
Tonight, they will be eating dinner, discussing their plans, and having a good time.
While Ellen is reading, Tim will be watching television.
NOTICE "IS READING" BECAUSE OF THE TIME CLAUSE CONTAINING "WHILE." (SEE EXPLANATION BELOW)
USE 4: ATMOSPHERE IN THE FUTURE

In English, we often use a series of Parallel Actions to describe atmosphere at a specific point in the
future.
When I arrive at the party, everybody is going to be celebrating. Some will be dancing. Others are
going to be talking. A few people will be eating pizza, and several people are going to be
drinking beer. They always do the same thing.

Like all future tenses, the Future Continuous cannot be used in clauses beginning with time
expressions such as: when, while, before, after, by the time, as soon as, if, unless, etc. Instead of
Future Continuous, Present Continuous is used.
Example:
While I am going to be finishing my homework, she is going to make dinner. Not Correct
While I am finishing my homework, she is going to make dinner. Correct
AND REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

Also, certain non-continuous meanings for Mixed Verbs cannot be used in continuous tenses. Instead
of using Future Continuous with these verbs, you must use Simple Future.
Example:
Jane will be being at my house when you arrive. Not Correct
Jane will be at my house when you arrive. Correct
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You will still be waiting for her when her plane arrives.
Will you still be waiting for her when her plane arrives?
You are still going to be waiting for her when her plane arrives.
Are you still going to be waiting for her when her plane arrives?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
32
Example:
At 8:00 PM tonight, John will be washing the dishes. ACTIVE
At 8:00 PM tonight, the dishes will be being washed by John. PASSIVE
At 8:00 PM tonight, John is going to be washing the dishes. ACTIVE
At 8:00 PM tonight, the dishes are going to be being washed by John. PASSIVE
33
10. PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
TENSE
USE 1: DURATION FROM THE PAST UNTIL NOW
We use the Present Perfect Continuous to show that something started in the past and has continued
up until now. "For five minutes," "for two weeks," and "since Tuesday" are all durations which can
be used with the Present Perfect Continuous.
Example:
She has been working at that company for three years.
USE 2: RECENTLY, LATELY
You can also use the Present Perfect Continuous WITHOUT a duration such as "for two weeks."
Without the duration, the tense has a more general meaning of "lately." We often use the words
"lately" or "recently" to emphasize this meaning.
Example:
Recently, I have been feeling tired.
She has been watching too much television lately.
IMPORTANT
Remember that the Present Perfect Continuous has the meaning of "lately" or "recently." If you use
the Present Perfect Continuous in a question such as "Have you been feeling alright?" it can suggest
that the person looks sick or unhealthy. A question such as "Have you been smoking?" can suggest
that you smell the smoke on the person. Using this tense in a question suggests you can see, smell,
hear or feel the results of the action. It is possible to insult someone by using this tense incorrectly.
REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS/ MIXED VERBS

It is important to remember that Non-Continuous Verbs cannot be used in any continuous tenses use
Present Perfect instead.
Example:
Sam has been having his car for two years. Not Correct
Sam has had his car for two years. Correct
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
34
Example:
You have only been waiting here for one hour.
Have you only been waiting here for one hour?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Recently, John has been doing the work. ACTIVE
Recently, the work has been being done by John. PASSIVE
35
11. PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS TENSE
USE 1: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE PAST
We use the Past Perfect Continuous to show that something started in the past and continued up until
another time in the past. "For five minutes" and "for two weeks" are both durations which can be used
with the Past Perfect Continuous. Notice that this is related to the Present Perfect Continuous;
however, the duration does not continue until now, it stops before something else in the past.
Example:
They had been talking for over an hour before Tony arrived.
She had been working at that company for three years when it went out of business.
How long had you been waiting to get on the bus?
USE 2: CAUSE OF SOMETHING IN THE PAST
Using the Past Perfect Continuous before another action in the past is a good way to show cause and
effect.
Example:
Jason was tired because he had been jogging.
PAST CONTINUOUS VS. PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

If you do not include duration such as "for five minutes," "for two weeks" or "since Friday," many
English speakers choose to use the Past Continuous rather than the Past Perfect Continuous. Be
careful because this can change the meaning of the sentence. Past Continuous emphasizes interrupted
actions, whereas Past Perfect Continuous emphasizes duration of time before something in the past.
Example:
He was tired because he was exercising so hard.
THIS SENTENCE EMPHASIZES THAT HE WAS TIRED BECAUSE HE WAS EXERCISING AT THAT EXACT MOMENT.
He was tired because he had been exercising so hard.
THIS SENTENCE EMPHASIZES THAT HE WAS TIRED BECAUSE HE HAD BEEN EXERCISING OVER A PERIOD OF
TIME. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT HE WAS STILL EXERCISING AT THAT MOMENT OR THAT HE HAD JUST FINISHED.
REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

of using Past Perfect Continuous with these verbs, you must use Past Perfect.
Example:
36
The motorcycle had been belonging to George for years before Tina bought it. Not Correct
The motorcycle had belonged to George for years before Tina bought it. Correct
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You had only been waiting there for a few minutes when she arrived.
Had you only been waiting there for a few minutes when she arrived?
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Chef Jones had been preparing the restaurant's fantastic dinners for two years before he moved to
Paris. ACTIVE
The restaurant's fantastic dinners had been being prepared by Chef Jones for two years before he
moved to Paris. PASSIVE
37
12. FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS TENSE
Future Perfect Continuous has two different forms: "will have been doing " and "be going to have
been doing." Unlike Simple Future forms, Future Perfect Continuous forms are usually
interchangeable.
Example:
You will have been waiting for more than two hours when her plane finally arrives.
You are going to have been waiting for more than two hours when her plane finally arrives.
NOTE: It is possible to use either "will" or "be going to" to create the Future Perfect Continuous with
little or no difference in meaning.
USE 1: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE
We use the Future Perfect Continuous to show that something will continue up until a particular event
or time in the future. "For five minutes," "for two weeks," and "since Friday" are all durations which
can be used with the Future Perfect Continuous. Notice that this is related to the Present Perfect
Continuous and the Past Perfect Continuous; however, with Future Perfect Continuous, the duration
stops at or before a reference point in the future.
Example:
They will have been talking for over an hour by the time Thomas arrives.
She is going to have been working at that company for three years when it finally closes.
Notice in the examples above that the reference points (marked in italics) are in Simple Present rather
than Simple Future. This is because these future events are in time clauses, and you cannot use future
USE 2: CAUSE OF SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE
Using the Future Perfect Continuous before another action in the future is a good way to show cause
and effect.
Example:
Jason will be tired when he gets home because he will have been jogging for over an hour.
Claudia's English will be perfect when she returns to Germany because she is going to have been
studying English in the United States for over two years.
38
FUTURE CONTINUOUS VS. FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
If you do not include a duration such as "for five minutes," "for two weeks" or "since Friday," many
English speakers choose to use the Future Continuous rather than the Future Perfect Continuous. Be
careful because this can change the meaning of the sentence. Future Continuous emphasizes
interrupted actions, whereas Future Perfect Continuous emphasizes a duration of time before
something in the future. Study the examples below to understand the difference.
Example:
He will be tired because he will be exercising so hard.
THIS SENTENCE EMPHASIZES THAT HE WILL BE TIRED BECAUSE HE WILL BE EXERCISING AT THAT EXACT
MOMENT IN THE FUTURE.
He will be tired because he will have been exercising so hard.

THIS SENTENCE EMPHASIZES THAT HE WILL BE TIRED BECAUSE HE WILL HAVE BEEN EXERCISING FOR A
PERIOD OF TIME. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT HE WILL STILL BE EXERCISING AT THAT MOMENT OR THAT HE WILL
JUST HAVE FINISHED.

Like all future forms, the Future Perfect Continuous cannot be used in clauses beginning with time
expressions such as: when, while, before, after, by the time, as soon as, if, unless, etc. Instead of
Future Perfect Continuous, Present Perfect Continuous is used.
Example:
You won't get a promotion until you will have been working here as long as Tim. Not Correct
You won't get a promotion until you have been working here as long as Tim. Correct
AND REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

of using Future Perfect Continuous with these verbs, you must use Future Perfect.
Example:
Ned will have been having his driver's license for over two years. Not Correct
Ned will have had his driver's license for over two years. Correct
ADVERB PLACEMENT
still, just, etc.
Example:
You will only have been waiting for a few minutes when her plane arrives.
Will you only have been waiting for a few minutes when her plane arrives?
You are only going to have been waiting for a few minutes when her plane arrives.
Are you only going to have been waiting for a few minutes when her plane arrives?
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ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
The famous artist will have been painting the mural for over six months by the time it is
finished. ACTIVE
The mural will have been being painted by the famous artist for over six months by the time it is
finished. PASSIVE
The famous artist is going to have been painting the mural for over six months by the time it is
finished. ACTIVE
The mural is going to have been being painted by the famous artist for over six months by the time
it is finished. PASSIVE
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13. USED TO… TENSE
USE 1: HABIT IN THE PAST
"Used to" expresses the idea that something was an old habit that stopped in the past. It indicates that
something was often repeated in the past, but it is not usually done now.
Example:
Jerry used to study English.
I used to start work at 9 o'clock.
USE 2: PAST FACTS AND GENERALIZATIONS
"Used to" can also be used to talk about past facts or generalizations which are no longer true.
Example:
I used to live in Paris.
Sarah used to be fat, but now she is thin.
"USED TO" VS. SIMPLE PAST

Both Simple Past and "Used to" can be used to describe past habits, past facts and past
generalizations; however, "used to" is preferred when emphasizing these forms of past repetition in
positive sentences. On the other hand, when asking questions or making negative sentences, Simple
Past is preferred.
Example:
You used to play the piano.
Did you play the piano when you were young?
You did not play the piano when you were young.
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
Jerry used to pay the bills. ACTIVE
The bills used to be paid by Jerry. PASSIVE
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14. WOULD ALWAYS… TENSE
USE 1: HABIT IN THE PAST
Like "used to" and Simple Past, "would always" expresses the idea that something was an old habit
which stopped in the past. It says that an action was often repeated in the past, but it is not usually
done now. Unlike "used to" and Simple Past, "would always" suggests that someone willingly acted
that way and sometimes expresses annoyance or amusement at the habit. It also often suggests the
habit was extreme. To express the opposite idea, we can say "would never" to indicate that someone
never did something in the past, but now they do.
Example:
She would always send me strange birthday gifts.
Ned would always show up at our house without calling first.
REFUSING TO DO SOMETHING OR NORMALLY NOT DOING SOMETHING IS ALSO A FORM OF HABIT.
REMEMBER "WOULD ALWAYS" IS DIFFERENT

"Would always" is not exactly the same as "used to" or the Simple Past. "Would always" cannot be
used to talk about past facts or generalizations. It can only be used for repeated actions.
Example:
Sarah was shy, but now she is very outgoing. Correct
Sarah used to be shy, but now she is very outgoing. Correct
Sarah would always be shy, but now she is very outgoing. Not Correct
FORMS RELATED TO "WOULD ALWAYS"

In addition to "would always," English speakers often use "would constantly," "would often," "would
forever" or simply "would." Although the last form "would" is correct, it is not suggested because it
can easily be confused with other verb forms such as the Conditional or Future in the Past. Similarly,
speakers can use "would rarely," "would occasionally" and "would seldom" to express the idea that
an action was not often repeated.
Example:
Jerry would come to the parties every weekend.
Jerry would constantly bring his girlfriend to the parties.
Jerry would often bring his best friend to the parties.
Jerry would occasionally bring his older brother to the parties.
Jerry would seldom bring his sister to the parties.
Jerry would never bring his younger brother to the parties.
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
My mother would always make the pies. ACTIVE
The pies would always be made by my mother. PASSIVE
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15. FUTURE IN THE PAST TENSE
Like Simple Future, Future in the Past has two different forms in English: "would" and "was going
to." Although the two forms can sometimes be used interchangeably, they often express two different
meanings.
USE 1: FUTURE IN PAST
Future in the Past is used to express the idea that in the past you thought something would happen in
the future. It does not matter if you are correct or not. Future in the Past follows the same basic rules
as the Simple Future. "Would" is used to volunteer or promise and "was going to" is used to plan.
Moreover, both forms can be used to make predictions about the future.
Example:
I told you he was going to come to the party. PLAN
I knew Julie would make dinner. VOLUNTARY ACTION
Jane said Sam was going to bring his sister with him, but he came alone. PLAN
I had a feeling that the vacation was going to be a disaster. PREDICTION
He promised he would send a postcard from Egypt. PROMISE

Like all future forms, Future in the Past cannot be used in clauses beginning with time expressions
such as: when, while, before, after, by the time, as soon as, if, unless, etc. Instead of using Future in
the Past, you must use Simple Past.
Example:
I already told Mark that when he would arrive, we would go out for dinner. Not Correct
I already told Mark that when he arrived, we would go out for dinner. Correct
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
Example:
I knew John would finish the work by 5:00 PM. ACTIVE
I knew the work would be finished by 5:00 PM. PASSIVE
I thought Sally was going to make a beautiful dinner. ACTIVE
I thought a beautiful dinner was going to be made by Sally. PASSIVE
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16. WERE TO
"Were to" can be used in the present to emphasize that the conditional form is extremely unlikely or
unthinkably horrible. Notice that this special form is only used in the if-clause.
Example:
If she were to be rich, she would be horribly obnoxious.
IT IS VERY UNLIKELY THAT SHE WOULD BE RICH.
If I were to have no friends, who would I spend my time with?
HAVING NO FRIENDS IS A HORRIBLE THOUGHT.
If Nathan were to be my boss, this job would be intolerable.
NATHAN'S BEING MY BOSS IS A HORRIBLE CONCEPT.
"WERE TO" IN THE FUTURE FORM

"Were to" can be used in the future to emphasize that the conditional form is extremely unlikely or
Example:
If I were to lose my job next year, I would probably not find a new one quickly.
LOSING MY JOB WOULD BE TERRIBLE.
If he were to fail his driving test tomorrow, he would have to take it again.
HE IS NOT LIKELY TO FAIL HIS DRIVING TEST.
If Sarah were to show up late to the birthday party, it would ruin the surprise.
SARAH WILL SURELY COME ON TIME.
"WERE TO" IN THE PAST FORM

"Were to" can be used in the past to emphasize that the conditional form is extremely unlikely or
Example:
If the fire were to have destroyed the building, it would have been a tragic cultural loss.
THE THOUGHT OF SUCH A LOSS IS TOO HORRIBLE TO CONSIDER.
If the dam were to have burst, the entire town would have been destroyed.
SUCH DESTRUCTION IS TOO HORRIBLE TO CONSIDER.
If Sarah were to have failed the final test, she would have lost her scholarship.
SHE IS AN EXCELLENT STUDENT, AND IT IS VERY UNLIKELY THAT SHE WOULD HAVE FAILED THE TEST.
44
17. PRESENT CONDITIONALS
Conditional Overview with Examples
Present Real Conditional Present Unreal Conditional

If I have time, I study English. If I had time, I would study English.
SOMETIMES I HAVE TIME. I DON'T HAVE TIME.
PRESENT REAL CONDITIONAL

The Present Real Conditional is used to talk about what you normally do in real-life situations.
Example:
If I go to a friend's house for dinner, I usually take a bottle of wine or some flowers.
When I have a day off from work, I often go to the beach.
If the weather is nice, she walks to work.
Jerry helps me with my homework when he has time.
PRESENT UNREAL CONDITIONAL

The Present Unreal Conditional is used to talk about what you would generally do in imaginary
situations.
Example:
If I owned a car, I would drive to work. But I don't own a car.
If they worked harder, they would earn more money.
She would travel around the world if she had more money. But she doesn't have much money.
I would read more if I didn't watch so much TV.
IMPORTANT IF / WHEN
Both "if" and "when" are used in the Present Real Conditional. Using "if" suggests that something
happens less frequently. Using "when" suggests that something happens regularly.
Example:
When I have a day off from work, I usually go to the beach.
I REGULARLY HAVE DAYS OFF FROM WORK.
If I have a day off from work, I usually go to the beach.
I RARELY HAVE DAYS OFF FROM WORK.
IMPORTANT ONLY USE "IF"

Only the word "if" is used with the Present Unreal Conditional because you are discussing imaginary
situations. "When" cannot be used.
Example:
I would buy that computer when it were cheaper. Not Correct
I would buy that computer if it were cheaper. Correct
45
EXCEPTION CONDITIONAL WITH MODAL VERBS
There are some special conditional forms for modal verbs in English:
would + can = could
would + shall = should
would + may = might
The words "can," "shall" and "may" can’t be used with "would." Instead, they must be used in these
special forms.
Example:
If I went to Egypt, I would can learn Arabic. Not Correct
If I went to Egypt, I could learn Arabic. Correct
If she had time, she would may go to the party. Not Correct
If she had time, she might go to the party. Correct
The words "could," should," "might" and "ought to" include conditional, so you can’t combine them
with "would."
Example:
If I had more time, I would could exercise after work. Not Correct
If I had more time, I could exercise after work. Correct
If he invited you, you really would should go. Not Correct
If he invited you, you really should go. Correct
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18. PAST CONDITIONALS
Past Real Conditional Past Unreal Conditional

If I had time, I studied English. If I had had time, I would have studied English.
SOMETIMES I HAD TIME. I DIDN'T HAVE TIME.
PAST REAL CONDITIONAL

The Past Real Conditional describes what you used to do real-life situations. It suggests that your
habits have changed, and you do not usually do these things today.
Example:
If I went to a friend's house for dinner, I usually took a bottle of wine or some flowers. I don't do that
anymore.
When I had a day off from work, I often went to the beach. Now, I never get time off.
IMPORTANT USED TO
The form "used to" expresses the idea that something was an old habit that stopped in the past. This
form is commonly used in Past Real Conditional sentences to emphasize that something was a habit.
The examples below have the same meaning as the examples above.
Example:
If I went to a friend's house for dinner, I used to take a bottle of wine or some flowers. I don't do that
anymore.
When I had a day off from work, I used to go to the beach. Now, I never get time off.
IMPORTANT IF / WHEN
Both "if" and "when" are used in the Past Real Conditional. Using "if" suggests that something
happened less frequently. Using "when" suggests that something happened regularly.
Example:
When I had a day off from work, I usually went to the beach.
I REGULARLY HAD DAYS OFF FROM WORK.
If I had a day off from work, I usually went to the beach.
I RARELY HAD DAYS OFF FROM WORK.
PAST UNREAL CONDITIONAL

The Past Unreal Conditional is used to talk about imaginary situations in the past. You can describe
what you would have done differently or how something could have happened differently if
circumstances had been different.
Example:
If I had owned a car, I would have driven to work. But I didn't own one, so I took the bus.
She would have traveled around the world if she had had more money. But she didn't have much
money, so she never traveled.
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Only the word "if" is used with the Past Unreal Conditional because you are discussing imaginary
Example:
I would have bought that computer when it had been cheaper. Not Correct
I would have bought that computer if it had been cheaper. Correct

would have + can = could have
would have + shall = should have
would have + may = might have
The words "can," "shall" and "may" can’t be used with "would have." Instead, they must be used in
these special forms.
Example:
If I had gone to Egypt, I could have learned Arabic.
If she had had time, she might have gone to the party.
The words "could," should," "might" and "ought to" include Conditional, so you can’t combine them
with "would have."
Example:
If I had had more time, I could have exercised after work.
If he had invited you, you might have gone.
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19. FUTURE CONDITIONAL
Future Real Conditional Future Unreal Conditional

If I have time, I will study English. If I had time, I would study English.
If I have time, I am going to study English. I WON'T HAVE TIME.
I DON'T KNOW IF I WILL HAVE TIME OR NOT. Other forms possible.
Other forms possible.
FUTURE REAL CONDITIONAL

* Notice that there is no future in the if- or when-clause.
The Future Real Conditional describes what you think you will do in a specific situation in the future.
It is different from other Real Conditional forms because, unlike the present or the past, you do not
know what will happen in the future. Although this form is called "real", you are usually imagining
or guessing about the future. It is called "real" because it is still possible that the action might occur
in the future. Carefully study the following examples and compare them to the Future Unreal
Conditional examples further down the page.
Example:
If I go to my friend's house for dinner tonight, I will take a bottle of wine or some flowers.
I AM STILL NOT SURE IF I WILL GO TO HIS HOUSE OR NOT.
When I have a day off from work, I am going to go to the beach.
I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL I HAVE A DAY OFF.
If the weather is nice, she is going to walk to work.
IT DEPENDS ON THE WEATHER.
Jerry will help me with my homework when he has time.
I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL HE HAS TIME.
I am going to read if there is nothing on TV.
IT DEPENDS ON THE TV SCHEDULE.
IMPORTANT If / When
Both "if" and "when" are used in the Future Real Conditional, but the use is different from other Real
Conditional forms. In the Future Real Conditional, "if" suggests that you do not know if something
will happen or not. "When" suggests that something will definitely happen at some point; we are
simply waiting for it to occur. Notice also that the Simple Future is not used in if-clauses or when-
clauses.
Example:
When you call me, I will give you the address.
YOU ARE GOING TO CALL ME LATER, AND AT THAT TIME, I WILL GIVE YOU THE ADDRESS.
If you call me, I will give you the address.
IF YOU WANT THE ADDRESS, YOU CAN CALL ME.
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FUTURE UNREAL CONDITIONAL (FORM 1)
* Notice that this form looks the same as Present Unreal Conditional.
The Future Unreal Conditional is used to talk about imaginary situations in the future. It is not as
common as the Future Real Conditional because English speakers often leave open the possibility
that anything MIGHT happen in the future. It is only used when a speaker needs to emphasize that
something is impossible. Because this form looks like Present Unreal Conditional, many native
speakers prefer Form 2 described below.
Example:
If I had a day off from work next week, I would go to the beach.
I DON'T HAVE A DAY OFF FROM WORK.
I am busy next week. If I had time, I would come to your party.
I CAN'T COME.
Jerry would help me with my homework tomorrow if he didn't have to work.
HE DOES HAVE TO WORK TOMORROW.

Form 2 of the Future Unreal Conditional is also used to talk about imaginary situations in the future.
Native speakers often prefer this form over Form 1 to emphasize that the conditional form is in the
future rather than the present. Also notice in the examples below that this form can be used in the if-
clause, the result, or both parts of the sentence.
Example:
If I were going to Fiji next week, I would be taking my scuba diving gear with me. In if-clause and
result
I AM NOT GOING TO GO TO FIJI AND I AM NOT GOING TO TAKE MY SCUBA GEAR WITH ME.
If I were not visiting my grandmother tomorrow, I would help you study. In if-clause
I AM GOING TO VISIT MY GRANDMOTHER TOMORROW.
I am busy next week. If I had time, I would be coming to your party. In result
I AM NOT GOING TO COME TO YOUR PARTY.

Form 3 of the Future Unreal Conditional is a variation of Form 2 which is also used to talk about
imaginary situations in the future. Notice that this form is only different from Form 2 in the if-clause.
Native speakers use Form 3 to emphasize that the conditional form is a plan or prediction in the same
way "be going to" is used to indicate a plan or prediction.
Example:
If I were going to go to Fiji next week, I would be taking my scuba diving gear with me.
I AM NOT GOING TO GO TO FIJI AND I AM NOT GOING TO TAKE MY SCUBA GEAR WITH ME.
If I were not going to visit my grandmother tomorrow, I would help you study.
I AM GOING TO VISIT MY GRANDMOTHER TOMORROW.

Only the word "if" is used with the Past Unreal Conditional because you are discussing imaginary
50
Example:
I would buy that computer tomorrow when it were cheaper. Not Correct
I would buy that computer tomorrow if it were cheaper. Correct

would + can = could
would + shall = should
would + may = might
The words "can," "shall" and "may" can’t be used with "would." Instead, they must be used in these
special forms.
Example:
If I went to Egypt next year, I would can learn Arabic. Unfortunately, that's not possible. Not Correct
If I went to Egypt next year, I could learn Arabic. Unfortunately, that's not possible. Correct
The words "could," should," "might" and "ought to" include conditional, so you can’t combine them
with "would."
Example:
If I didn't have to work tonight, I would could go to the fitness center. Not Correct
If I didn't have to work tonight, I could go to the fitness center. Correct
FUTURE REAL CONDITIONAL VS. FUTURE UNREAL CONDITIONAL

To help you understand the difference between the Future Real Conditional and the Future Unreal
Conditional, compare the examples below:
Example:
If you help me move tomorrow, I will buy you dinner. Future Real Conditional
I DON'T KNOW IF YOU CAN HELP ME.
If you helped me move tomorrow, I would buy you dinner. Future Unreal Conditional
YOU CAN'T HELP ME, OR YOU DON'T WANT TO HELP ME.
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20. CONTINUOUS CONDITIONAL
You should be familiar with continuous verb tenses such as Present Continuous, Past Continuous,
Future Continuous, Present Perfect Continuous, Past Perfect Continuous, and Future Perfect
Continuous. The Verb Tense Tutorial gives you all the information you need to create continuous
Real Conditional sentences. But many English learners are not aware of the fact that we can use
continuousness in imaginary situations as well. Study the examples below to learn how to create
continuous Unreal Conditional sentences that will make you sound like a native speaker.
PRESENT UNREAL CONDITIONAL + CONTINUOUS FORM

Present Unreal Conditional + Continuous is used to discuss imaginary situations which could be
happening at this very moment.
Example in the if-clause:

If the sun were shining, I would go to the beach.
UNFORTUNATELY, IT IS RAINING SO I CAN'T GO.
If Sam were sitting here, we would be able to ask him the question ourselves.
BUT SAM IS NOT SITTING HERE. HE IS SOMEWHERE ELSE.
We would be able to go sailing if the wind were blowing.
BUT THERE IS NO WIND, SO WE CAN'T GO SAILING.
Example in the result:

If I were in Hawaii, I would be lying on the beach.
BUT I AM NOT IN HAWAII.
If my grandfather were here, he would be talking about the war.
BUT HE IS NOT HERE.
I would be rafting down the Colorado River right now if my leg weren't broken.
BUT MY LEG IS BROKEN, SO I AM NOT THERE.
PAST UNREAL CONDITIONAL + CONTINUOUS FORM

Past Unreal Conditional + Continuous is used to discuss imaginary situations happening at a very
specific time in the past or over a period of time in the past.

If I had been talking to him when he said that, I would have punched him in the face.
BUT I WASN'T TALKING TO HIM WHEN HE SAID THAT.
If he had been standing near the house when the wall collapsed, it would have killed him.
LUCKILY, HE MOVED AWAY BEFORE THE WALL FELL.

If you had gone to his house last night, he would have been sitting on his couch in front of the TV.
BUT YOU DIDN'T GO TO HIS HOUSE, SO YOU DIDN'T SEE WHAT HE WAS DOING.
If she had missed her train, he would have been waiting for her at the station for hours.
LUCKILY, SHE CAUGHT HER TRAIN AND HE DIDN'T HAVE TO WAIT.
52
FUTURE UNREAL CONDITIONAL + CONTINUOUS FORM
Future Unreal Conditional + Continuous can be used like the Future Continuous in imaginary
situations to emphasize interruptions or parallel actions in the future.
NOTICE The future form looks the same as the present form. The future is indicated with words such
as "tomorrow," "next week" or "in a couple of days."

If I were waiting there next week when he gets off the plane, he would be totally surprised.
BUT I WILL NOT BE WAITING THERE, SO HE WON'T BE SURPRISED.
If he were staying in that hotel next week while the conference is being held, he might be able to
meet some of the key speakers and tell them about our new product.
I DON'T THINK HE WILL BE ABLE TO STAY AT THE HOTEL, SO HE WON'T BE ABLE TO MEET ANYBODY THERE.

If I were able to go to the train station tonight to meet Sandra, I would be standing on the platform
waiting for her when she arrives.
I WON'T BE ABLE TO GO TO THE TRAIN STATION, SO I WILL NOT BE STANDING THERE WHEN SHE ARRIVES.
If you went over to Paul's house after work, he would probably be sitting there at his computer
surfing the Internet.
BUT YOU WON'T GO OVER.
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21. MIXED CONDITIONAL
Those of you who have been following the Conditional Tutorial should now be familiar with present,
past and future conditional verb forms. Sometimes Unreal Conditional sentences are mixed. This
means that the time in the if-clause is not the same as the time in the result. Study the examples below
to learn how to mix conditional verb forms like a native speaker.
Verbs in italic are in the Present Unreal Conditional.

Verbs in bold are in the Past Unreal Conditional.
Verbs underlines are in the Future Unreal Conditional.
MIXED CONDITIONAL PATTERNS
PAST - PRESENT
Example:
If I had won the lottery, I would be rich.
BUT I DIDN'T WIN THE LOTTERY IN THE PAST AND I AM NOT RICH NOW.
If I had taken French in high school, I would have more job opportunities.
BUT I DIDN'T TAKE FRENCH IN HIGH SCHOOL AND I DON'T HAVE MANY JOB OPPORTUNITIES.
If she had been born in the United States, she wouldn't need a visa to work here.
BUT SHE WASN'T BORN IN THE UNITED STATES AND SHE DOES NEED A VISA NOW TO WORK HERE.
PAST - FUTURE
Example:
If she had signed up for the ski trip last week, she would be joining us tomorrow.
BUT SHE DIDN'T SIGN UP FOR THE SKI TRIP LAST WEEK AND SHE ISN'T GOING TO JOIN US TOMORROW.
If Mark had gotten the job instead of Joe, he would be moving to Shanghai.
BUT MARK DIDN'T GET THE JOB AND MARK IS NOT GOING TO MOVE TO SHANGHAI.
If Darren hadn't wasted his Christmas bonus gambling in Las Vegas, he would go to Mexico with
us next month.
BUT DARREN WASTED HIS CHRISTMAS BONUS GAMBLING IN LAS VEGAS AND HE WON'T GO TO MEXICO WITH
US NEXT MONTH.
PRESENT - PAST
Example:
If I were rich, I would have bought that Ferrari we saw yesterday.
BUT I AM NOT CURRENTLY RICH AND THAT IS WHY I DIDN'T BUY THE FERRARI YESTERDAY.
If Sam spoke Russian, he would have translated the letter for you.
BUT SAM DOESN'T SPEAK RUSSIAN AND THAT IS WHY HE DIDN'T TRANSLATE THE LETTER.
If I didn't have to work so much, I would have gone to the party last night.
BUT I HAVE TO WORK A LOT AND THAT IS WHY I DIDN'T GO TO THE PARTY LAST NIGHT.
54
PRESENT - FUTURE
Example:
If I didn't have so much vacation time, I wouldn't go with you on the cruise to Alaska next week.
BUT I DO HAVE A LOT OF VACATION TIME AND I WILL GO ON THE TRIP NEXT WEEK.
If Cindy were more creative, the company would send her to New York to work on the new
advertising campaign.
BUT CINDY IS NOT CREATIVE, AND THE COMPANY WON'T SEND HER TO NEW YORK TO WORK ON THE NEW
CAMPAIGN.
If Dan weren't so nice, he wouldn't be tutoring you in math tonight.
BUT DAN IS NICE, AND HE IS GOING TO TUTOR YOU TONIGHT.
FUTURE - PAST
Example:
If I weren't going on my business trip next week, I would have accepted that new assignment at
work.
BUT I AM GOING TO GO ON A BUSINESS TRIP NEXT WEEK, AND THAT IS WHY I DIDN'T ACCEPT THAT NEW
ASSIGNMENT AT WORK.
If my parents weren't coming this weekend, I would have planned a nice trip just for the two of us
to Napa Valley.
BUT MY PARENTS ARE GOING TO COME THIS WEEKEND, AND THAT IS WHY I DIDN'T PLAN A TRIP FOR THE TWO
OF US TO NAPA VALLEY.
If Donna weren't making us a big dinner tonight, I would have suggested that we go to that nice
Italian restaurant.
BUT SHE IS GOING TO MAKE US A BIG DINNER TONIGHT, AND THAT IS WHY I DIDN'T SUGGEST THAT WE GO TO
THAT NICE ITALIAN RESTAURANT.
FUTURE - PRESENT
Example:
If I were going to that concert tonight, I would be very excited.
BUT I AM NOT GOING TO GO TO THAT CONCERT TONIGHT AND THAT IS WHY I AM NOT EXCITED.
If Sandy were giving a speech tomorrow, she would be very nervous.
BUT SANDY IS NOT GOING TO GIVE A SPEECH TOMORROW AND THAT IS WHY SHE IN NOT NERVOUS.
If John didn't come with us to the desert, everyone would be very disappointed.
BUT JOHN WILL COME WITH US TO THE DESERT AND THAT IS WHY EVERYONE IS SO HAPPY.
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22. MODAL VERBS
Modal verbs are special verbs which behave very differently from normal verbs. Here are some
important differences:
1. Modal verbs do not take "-s" in the third person.
Example:
He can speak Chinese.
She should be here by 9:00.
2. You use "not" to make modal verbs negative, even in Simple Present and Simple Past.
Example:
He should not be late.
They might not come to the party.
3. Many modal verbs cannot be used in the past tenses or the future tenses.
Example:
He will can go with us. Not Correct
She musted study very hard. Not Correct
Common Modal Verbs
Can Ought to
Could Shall
May Should
Might Will
Must Would
For the purposes of this tutorial, we have included some expressions which are not modal verbs
including had better, have to, and have got to. These expressions are closely related to modals in
meaning and are often interchanged with them.
CAN
"Can" is one of the most commonly used modal verbs in English. It can be used to express ability or
opportunity, to request or offer permission, and to show possibility or impossibility.
Example:
I can ride a horse. ABILITY
We can stay with my brother when we are in Paris. OPPORTUNITY
She cannot stay out after 10 PM. PERMISSION
Can you hand me the stapler? REQUEST
Any child can grow up to be president. POSSIBILITY
56
USING "CAN" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
Most modal verbs behave quite irregularly in the past and the future. Study the chart below to learn
how "can" behaves in different contexts.
Modal Use Positive Forms Negative Forms You can also use:
1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future 1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future
can 1. I can speak Chinese. 1. I can't speak Swahili. be able to
GENERAL ABILITY 2. SHIFT TO "COULD" 2. SHIFT TO "COULD"
I could speak Chinese when I was a I couldn't speak Swahili.
kid. 3. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO"
3. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO" I won't be able to speak Swahili.
I will be able to speak Chinese by
the time I finish my course.
can 1. With a burst of adrenaline, people 1. Even with a burst of adrenaline, be able to
ABILITY DURING A can pick up cars. people can't pick up something that
SPECIFIC EVENT 2. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO" heavy.
With a sudden burst of adrenaline, 2. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO"
he was able to lift the car off the Even the weight lifter, couldn't lift
child's leg. the car off the child's leg.
3. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO" 3. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO"
With a sudden burst of adrenaline, Even three men working together
he will be able to lift the car. won't be able to lift the car.
can 1. I have some free time. I can help 1. I don't have any time. I can't help be able to
OPPORTUNITY her now. her now.
2. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO" 2. SHIFT TO "BE ABLE TO"
I had some free time yesterday. I I didn't have time yesterday. I wasn't
was able to help her at that time. able to help her at that time.
3. I'll have some free time tomorrow. 3. I won't have any time later. I can't
I can help her then. help her then.
can 1. I can drive Susan's car when she is 1. I can't drive Susan's car when she may
PERMISSION out of town. is out of town.
2. SHIFT TO "BE ALLOWED TO" 2. SHIFT TO "BE ALLOWED TO"
I was allowed to drive Susan's car I wasn't allowed to drive Susan's car
while she was out of town last week. while she was out of town last week.
3. I can drive Susan's car while she 3. I can't drive Susan's car while she
is out of town next week. is out of town next week.
can Can I have a glass of water? Can't I have a glass of water? could, may
REQUEST Can you give me a lift to school? Can't you give me a lift to school?
REQUESTS USUALLY REFER TO THE REQUESTS USUALLY REFER TO THE
NEAR FUTURE. NEAR FUTURE.
can Anyone can become rich and famous It can't cost more than a dollar or could
POSSIBILITY, if they know the right people. two.
IMPOSSIBILITY Learning a language can be a real You can't be 45! I thought you were
challenge. about 18 years old.
THIS USE IS USUALLY A THIS USE IS USUALLY A
GENERALIZATION OR A SUPPOSITION. GENERALIZATION OR A SUPPOSITION.
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COULD
"Could" is used to express possibility or past ability as well as to make suggestions and requests.
"Could" is also commonly used in conditional sentences as the conditional form of "can."
Example:
Extreme rain could cause the river to flood the city. POSSIBILITY
Nancy could ski like a pro by the age of 11. PAST ABILITY
You could see a movie or go out to dinner. SUGGESTION
Could I use your computer to email my boss? REQUEST
We could go on the trip if I didn't have to work this weekend. CONDITIONAL
USING "COULD" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how "could" behaves in different contexts.
Modal Use Positive Forms Negative Forms You can also

1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future 1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future use:
could 1. John could be the one who stole 1. Mary couldn't be the one who stole might,
POSSIBILITY the money. the money. may
2. John could have been the one who 2. Mary couldn't have been the one
stole the money. who stole the money.
3. John could go to jail for stealing 3. Mary couldn't possibly go to jail
the money. for the crime.
could 1. If I had more time, I could travel 1. Even if I had more time, I couldn't
CONDITIONAL around the world. travel around the world.
OF CAN 2. If I had had more time, I could 2. Even if I had had more time, I
have traveled around the world. couldn't have traveled around the
3. If I had more time this winter, I world.
could travel around the world. 3. Even if I had more time this winter,
I couldn't travel around the world.
could 1. NO PRESENT FORM NO NEGATIVE FORMS
SUGGESTION 2. You could have spent your
vacation in Hawaii.
3. You could spend your vacation in
Hawaii.
could I could run ten miles in my twenties. I couldn't run more than a mile in my be able to
PAST ABILITY I could speak Chinese when I was a twenties.
kid. I couldn't speak Swahili.
"COULD" CANNOT BE USED IN POSITIVE "COULD" CAN BE USED IN NEGATIVE
SENTENCES IN WHICH YOU DESCRIBE A SENTENCES IN WHICH YOU DESCRIBE A
MOMENTARY OR ONE-TIME ABILITY. MOMENTARY OR ONE-TIME ABILITY.
Yesterday, I could lift the couch by Yesterday, I couldn't lift the couch by
myself. Not Correct myself. Correct
could Could I have something to drink? Couldn't he come with us? can,
POLITE REQUEST Could I borrow your stapler? Couldn't you help me with this for may,
REQUESTS USUALLY REFER TO THE just a second? might
NEAR FUTURE. REQUESTS USUALLY REFER TO THE
NEAR FUTURE.
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REMEMBER: "Could not" vs. "Might not"
"Could not" suggests that it is impossible for something to happen. "Might not" suggests you do not
know if something happens.
Example:
Jack might not have the key. MAYBE HE DOES NOT HAVE THE KEY.
Jack could not have the key. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE THAT HE HAS THE KEY.
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HAD BETTER
"Had better" is most commonly used to make recommendations. It can also be used to express
desperate hope as well as warn people.
Example:
You had better take your umbrella with you today. RECOMMENDATION
That bus had better get here soon! DESPERATE HOPE
You had better watch the way you talk to me in the future! WARNING
USING "HAD BETTER" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how "had better" behaves in different contexts.
Use Positive Forms Negative Forms You can also

had better 1. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" OR 1. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" OR should,
RECOMMENDATION "OUGHT TO" "OUGHT TO" ought to
People should unplug toasters before People shouldn't clean toasters
they clean them. without unplugging them first.
2. SHIFT TO "SHOULD HAVE" OR 2. SHIFT TO "SHOULD HAVE"
"OUGHT TO HAVE" OR "OUGHT TO HAVE"
You should have unplugged the toaster You shouldn't have cleaned the
before you tried to clean it. toaster without unplugging it first.
3. You had better unplug the toaster 3. You had better not clean the
before you try to clean it. toaster until you unplug it.
had better The movie had better end soon. They had better not be late.
DESPERATE HOPE, They had better be here before we start They had better not forget Tom's
WARNING dinner. birthday gift.
DESPERATE HOPES AND WARNINGS DESPERATE HOPES AND WARNINGS
USUALLY REFER TO THE NEAR FUTURE. USUALLY REFER TO THE NEAR FUTURE.
"Had better" is often simply pronounced as "better" in spoken English.
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HAVE TO
"Have to" is used to express certainty, necessity, and obligation.
Example:
This answer has to be correct. CERTAINTY
The soup has to be stirred continuously to prevent burning. NECESSITY
They have to leave early. OBLIGATION
USING "HAVE TO" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
"Have to" behaves quite irregularly in the past and the future. Study the chart below to learn how
"have to" behaves in different contexts.
Use Positive Forms Negative Forms You can

1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future 1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future also use:
have to 1. That has to be Jerry. They said he 1. SHIFT TO "MUST" must,
CERTAINTY was tall with bright red hair. That must not be Jerry. They said he have got to
2. That has to have been the right has blond hair, not red hair.
restaurant. There were no other 2. SHIFT TO "MUST"
restaurants on the street. That must not have been the right
3. NONE restaurant. I guess there was another
one around there somewhere.
3. NONE
have to 1. She has to read four books for this 1. She doesn't have to read "Grapes of must
NECESSITY literature class. Wrath." It's optional reading for extra
2. She had to finish the first book credit.
before the midterm. 2. She didn't have to write a critique
3. She will have to finish the other of "The Scarlet Letter." She had to
books before the final exam. give a presentation to her class.
3. She won't have to take any other
literature classes. American Literature
101 is the only required course.
REMEMBER: "Do not have to" vs. "Must not"
"Do not have to" suggests that someone is not required to do something. "Must not" suggests that you
are prohibited from doing something.
Example:
You must not eat that. IT IS FORBIDDEN, IT IS NOT ALLOWED.
You don't have to eat that. YOU CAN IF YOU WANT TO, BUT IT IS NOT NECESSARY.
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HAVE GOT TO
"Have got to" is used to express necessity and obligation.
Example:
Drivers have got to get a license to drive a car in the US. NECESSITY
I have got to be at work by 8:30 AM. OBLIGATION
USING "HAVE GOT TO" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how - "have got to" behaves in different contexts.
Use Positive Forms Negative Forms You can

have got to 1. People have got to be on time if 1. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" have to,
NECESSITY they want to get a seat in the crowded People don't have to be there on time must
theater. to get a seat.
2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" 2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO"
You had to be on time if you wanted You didn't have to be there on time to
to get a seat in the crowded theater. get a seat.
3. You have got to be there on time 3. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO"
tonight if you want to get a seat in the You won't have to be there on time to
crowded theater. get a seat.
haven't got to Haven't you got to be there by 7:00? Don't you have
FUTURE Haven't you got to finish that project to
OBLIGATION today?
"HAVEN'T GOT TO" IS PRIMARILY USED
TO ASK ABOUT FUTURE OBLIGATIONS. IT
CAN BE USED IN STATEMENTS, BUT THIS
IS LESS COMMON.
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MAY
"May" is most commonly used to express possibility. It can also be used to give or request permission,
although this usage is becoming less common.
Example:
Cheryl may be at home, or perhaps at work. POSSIBILITY
Johnny, you may leave the table when you have finished your dinner. GIVE PERMISSION
May I use your bathroom? REQUEST PERMISSION
USING "MAY" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how "may" behaves in different contexts.
Modal Use Positive Forms Negative Forms You can

may 1. Jack may be upset. I can't really tell 1. Jack may not be upset. Perhaps he might
POSSIBILITY if he is annoyed or tired. is tired.
2. Jack may have been upset. I couldn't 2. Jack may not have been upset.
really tell if he was annoyed or tired. Perhaps he was tired.
3. Jack may get upset if you don't tell 3. Jack may not get upset, even if
him the truth. you tell him the truth
may 1. You may leave the table now that 1. You may not leave the table. can
GIVE PERMISSION you're finished with your dinner. You're not finished with your dinner
2. SHIFT TO "BE ALLOWED TO" yet.
You were allowed to leave the table 2. SHIFT TO "BE ALLOWED TO"
after you finished your dinner. You were not allowed to leave the
3. You may leave the table when you table because you hadn't finished
finish your dinner. your dinner.
3. You may not leave the table until
you are finished with your dinner.
may May I borrow your eraser? NO NEGATIVE FORMS can,
REQUEST May I make a phone call? might
PERMISSION REQUESTS USUALLY REFER TO THE NEAR
FUTURE.
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MIGHT
"Might" is most commonly used to express possibility. It is also often used in conditional sentences.
English speakers can also use "might" to make suggestions or requests, although this is less common
in American English.
Example:
Your purse might be in the living room. POSSIBILITY
If I didn't have to work, I might go with you. CONDITIONAL
You might visit the botanical gardens during your visit. SUGGESTION
Might I borrow your pen? REQUEST
USING "MIGHT" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how "might" behaves in different contexts.

might 1. She might be on the bus. I think her 1. She might not be on the bus. She could,
POSSIBILITY car is having problems. might be walking home. may
2. She might have taken the bus. I'm 2. She might not have taken the bus.
not sure how she got to work. She might have walked home.
3. She might take the bus to get 3. She might not take the bus. She
home. I don't think Bill will be able to might get a ride from Bill.
give her a ride.
might 1. If I entered the contest, I might 1. Even if I entered the contest, I
CONDITIONAL OF actually win. might not win.
MAY 2. If I had entered the contest, I might 2. Even if I had entered the contest, I
actually have won. might not have won.
3. If I entered the contest tomorrow, I 3. Even if I entered the contest
might actually win. Unfortunately, I tomorrow, I might not win.
can't enter it.
might 1. NO PRESENT FORM 1. NO PRESENT FORM could
SUGGESTION 2. You might have tried the cheese 2. PAST FORM UNCOMMON
cake. 3. You might not want to eat the
3. You might try the cheesecake. cheese cake. It's very calorific.
might Might I have something to drink? NEGATIVE FORMS UNCOMMON could,
REQUEST Might I borrow the stapler? may,
(British form) REQUESTS USUALLY REFER TO THE can
NEAR FUTURE.
REMEMBER: "MIGHT NOT" VS. "COULD NOT"
"Might not" suggests you do not know if something happens. "Could not" suggests that it is
impossible for something to happen.
Example:
Jack might not have the key. MAYBE HE DOES NOT HAVE THE KEY.
Jack could not have the key. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE THAT HE HAS THE KEY.
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MUST
"Must" is most commonly used to express certainty. It can also be used to express necessity or strong
recommendation, although native speakers prefer the more flexible form "have to." "Must not" can
be used to prohibit actions, but this sounds very severe; speakers prefer to use softer modal verbs such
as "should not" or "ought not" to dissuade rather than prohibit.
Example:
This must be the right address! CERTAINTY
Students must pass an entrance examination to study at this school. NECESSITY
You must take some medicine for that cough. STRONG RECOMMENDATION
Jenny, you must not play in the street! PROHIBITION
USING "MUST" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how "must" behaves in different contexts.

must 1. That must be Jerry. They said he 1. That must not be Jerry. He is have to
CERTAINTY was tall with bright red hair. supposed to have red hair.
2. That must have been the right 2. That must not have been the right
restaurant. There are no other restaurant. I guess there is another one
restaurants on this street. around here somewhere.
3. NO FUTURE FORM 3. NO FUTURE FORM
must not You must not swim in that river. It's
PROHIBITION full of crocodiles.
You must not forget to take your
malaria medication while you are in
the tropics.
PROHIBITION USUALLY REFERS
TO THE NEAR FUTURE.
must 1. You must take some time off and 1. You mustn't drink so much. It's not should
STRONG get some rest. good for your health.
RECOMMENDATION 2. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" 2. SHIFT TO "SHOULD"
(Americans You should have taken some time off You shouldn't have drunk so much.
prefer last week to get some rest. That caused the accident.
the form 3. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" 3. SHIFT TO "SHOULD"
"should.") You should take some time off next You shouldn't drink at the party. You
week to get some rest. are going to be the designated driver.
must 1. You must have a permit to enter 1. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" have to
NECESSITY the national park. We don't have to get a permit to enter
(Americans 2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" the national park.
prefer We had to have a permit to enter the 2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO"
the form park. We didn't have to get a permit to enter
"have to.") 3. We must get a permit to enter the the national park.
park next week. 3. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO"
We won't have to get a permit to enter
the national park.
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REMEMBER: "Must not" vs. "Do not have to"
"Must not" suggests that you are prohibited from doing something. "Do not have to" suggests that
someone is not required to do something.
Example:
You must not eat that. IT IS FORBIDDEN, IT IS NOT ALLOWED.
You don't have to eat that. YOU CAN IF YOU WANT TO, BUT IT IS NOT NECESSARY.
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OUGHT TO
"Ought to" is used to advise or make recommendations. "Ought to" also expresses assumption or
expectation as well as strong probability, often with the idea that something is deserved. "Ought not"
(without "to") is used to advise against doing something, although Americans prefer the less formal
forms "should not" or "had better not."
Example:
You ought to stop smoking. RECOMMENDATION
Jim ought to get the promotion. IT IS EXPECTED BECAUSE HE DESERVES IT.
This stock ought to increase in value. PROBABILITY
Mark ought to not drink so much. ADVICE AGAINST SOMETHING (NOTICE THERE IS NO "TO")
USING "OUGHT TO" IN PRESENT, PAST, AND FUTURE
how "ought to" behaves in different contexts.

ought to 1. Margaret ought to exercise more. 1. Margaret ought not exercise too should
RECOMMENDATION, 2. Margaret ought to have exercised much. It might cause injury.
ADVICE more so she would be better prepared 2. Margaret ought not have run the
for the marathon. marathon. She wasn't in good shape.
3. Margaret ought to come to the 3. Margaret ought not stay at home in
fitness center with us tonight. front of the TV. She should go to the
fitness center with us.
ought to 1. She ought to have the package by "OUGHT NOT" IS USED PRIMARILY TO should
ASSUMPTION, now. EXPRESS NEGATIVE
EXPECTATION, 2. She ought to have received the RECOMMENDATIONS. (SEE ABOVE.)
PROBABILITY package yesterday.
3. She ought to receive the package
tonight.
NOTICE "OUGHT NOT"
Remember that "ought to" loses the "to" in the negative. Instead of "ought not to," we say "ought
not." "Ought not" is more commonly used in British English. Americans prefer "should not."
Example:
You ought not smoke so much.
She ought not take such risks while skiing.
They ought not carry so much cash while traveling.
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SHALL
"Shall" is used to indicate future action. It is most commonly used in sentences with "I" or "we," and
is often found in suggestions, such as "Shall we go?" "Shall" is also frequently used in promises or
voluntary actions. In formal English, the use of "shall" to describe future events often expresses
inevitability or predestination.
"Shall" is much more commonly heard in British English than in American English; Americans prefer
to use other forms, although they do sometimes use "shall" in suggestions or formalized language.
Example:
Shall I help you? SUGGESTION
I shall never forget where I came from. PROMISE
He shall become our next king. PREDESTINATION
I'm afraid Mr. Smith shall become our new director. INEVITABILITY
More Examples of "Shall"

also use:
shall I shall be replaced by someone from I shall not be replaced after all. will
FUTURE ACTION the New York office. I shall not be there. I have a previous
(British form) I shall be there by 8:00. obligation.
shall Shall we begin dinner? should
SUGGESTIONS Shall we move into the living room?
shall I shall take care of everything for I shall never forget you. will
VOLUNTEERING, you. I shall never give up the fight for
PROMISING I shall make the travel arrangements. freedom.
(British form) There's no need to worry.
shall Man shall explore the distant regions Man shall never give up the
INEVITABILITY of the universe. exploration of the universe.
(British form) We shall overcome oppression. He shall not be held back.
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SHOULD
"Should" is most commonly used to make recommendations or give advice. It can also be used to
express obligation as well as expectation.
Example:
When you go to Berlin, you should visit the palaces in Potsdam. RECOMMENDATION
You should focus more on your family and less on work. ADVICE
I really should be in the office by 7:00 AM. OBLIGATION
By now, they should already be in Dubai. EXPECTATION
Using "Should" in Present, Past, and Future
how "should" behaves in different contexts.

should 1. People with high cholesterol 1. Sarah shouldn't smoke so much. ought to
RECOMMENDATION, should eat low-fat foods. It's not good for her health.
ADVISABILITY 2. Frank should have eaten low-fat 2. Sarah shouldn't have smoked so
foods. That might have prevented his much. That's what caused her health
heart attack. problems.
3. You really should start eating 3. Sarah shouldn't smoke when she
better. visits Martha next week. Martha hates
when people smoke in her house.
should I should be at work before 9:00. NO NEGATIVE FORMS be supposed to
OBLIGATION We should return the video before the
video rental store closes.
"SHOULD" CAN ALSO EXPRESS
SOMETHING BETWEEN
RECOMMENDATION AND OBLIGATION.
"BE SUPPOSED TO" EXPRESSES A
SIMILAR IDEA AND CAN EASILY BE USED
IN THE PAST OR IN NEGATIVE FORMS.
should 1. Susan should be in New York by 1. Susan shouldn't be in New York ought to,
EXPECTATION now. yet. be supposed to
2. Susan should have arrived in New 2. Susan shouldn't have arrived in
York last week. Let's call her and see New York until yesterday.
what she is up to. 3. Susan shouldn't arrive in New
3. Susan should be in New York by York until next week.
next week. Her new job starts on
Monday.
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WILL
"Will" is used with promises or voluntary actions that take place in the future. "Will" can also be used
to make predictions about the future.
Example:
I promise that I will write you every single day. PROMISE
I will make dinner tonight. VOLUNTARY ACTION
He thinks it will rain tomorrow. PREDICTION
More Examples of "Will"

use:
will The marketing director will be The marketing director will not be shall
FUTURE ACTION, replaced by someone from the New replaced after all.
PREDICTION York office. Fred will not be there. He has a
Fred will be there by 8:00. previous obligation.
will I will take care of everything for you. I will never forget you. shall
VOLUNTEERING, I will make the travel arrangements. I will never give up the fight for
PROMISING There's no need to worry. freedom.
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WOULD
"Would" is most commonly used to create conditional verb forms. It also serves as the past form of
the modal verb "will." Additionally, "would" can indicate repetition in the past.
Example:
If he were an actor, he would be in adventure movies. CONDITIONAL
I knew that she would be very successful in her career. PAST OF "WILL"
When they first met, they would always have picnics on the beach. REPETITION
Using "Would" in Present, Past, and Future

would 1. If I were president, I would cut the 1. If I were president, I would not
CONDITIONAL cost of education. raise taxes.
2. If I had been president, I would 2. If I had been president, I would not
have cut the cost of education. have raised taxes.
3. If I were elected president next 3. If I were president, I would not
year, I would cut the cost of sign the tax increase next week.
education.
would I said I would help you. I said I wouldn't help you.
PAST OF "WILL" He told me he would be here before He told me he would not be here
8:00. before 8:00.
would When I was a kid, I would always go When I was a kid, I wouldn't go into used to
REPETITION IN PAST to the beach. the water by myself.
When he was young, he would When he got older, he would never
always do his homework. do his homework.
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MODAL VERBS REVIEW
Modal verbs can be used in a variety of different forms. Study the examples below.
Modal Simple Passive Modal Simple

I could swim at the beach. The room should be cleaned once a day.
Modal Continuous Passive Modal Continuous
I could be swimming at the beach right now. The room should be being cleaned now.
Modal Perfect Passive Modal Perfect
I could have swum at the beach yesterday. The room should have been cleaned yesterday.
Modal Perfect Continuous Passive Modal Perfect Continuous
I could have been swimming at the beach instead of The room should have been being cleaned but nobody was
working in the office. there. (Rare form)
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Verb Definitions
1 Ambi-transitive Verbs 10 Inchoative Verbs 19 Phrasal Verbs
2 Auxiliary Verbs 11 Intransitive Verbs 20 Reflexive Verbs
3 Causative Verbs 12 Irregular Verbs 21 Regular Verbs
4 Continuous Verbs 13 Linking Verbs 22 Stative Verbs
5 Copula Verbs 14 Main Verbs 23 Transitive Verb
6 Ditransitive Verbs 15 Middle Verbs 24 Verb Group
7 Dynamic Verbs 16 Modal Verbs 25 Verb Phrase
8 Ergative Verbs 17 Non-Finite Verbs 26 Verbs
9 Finite Verbs 18 Performative Verbs
1. Ambi-transitive Verbs
An ambi-transitive verb can be both transitive and intransitive without changing the verb:
▪ I read my newspaper.
▪ I always read in bed.
In the first sentence, read is used transitively, with the direct object newspaper, while in the second
there's no object, so it is being used intransitively.
2. Auxiliary Verbs
'DO', 'BE' and 'HAVE' are the English auxiliary verbs used in a negative structure, a question or to
show tense.
DESCRIPTIONS OF ENGLISH AUXILIARY VERBS:
▪ 'DO', 'DON'T', 'DOES' and 'DOESN'T' are used for questions and negatives in the Present Simple
Tense, and 'DID' and 'DIDN'T' are used in the Past Simple Tense.
▪ 'BE' is used with the Present Participle in Continuous (Progressive) Verbs. It is also used with the
Past Participle in the Passive
▪ 'HAVE' is used with the Past Participle to form the Perfect Aspect.
3. Causative Verbs
We use the causative when we do not carry out an action ourselves but are responsible for the action
being performed.
▪ She had her car serviced last week –
(She didn't service the car herself, but the car was serviced because of her; she took it to a garage
and asked them to do it.)
Formation:
Have or get + Noun Phrase + Past Participle
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4. Continuous Verbs
Present Continuous (Present Progressive)

The Present Progressive is used for actions that have begun but not finished. It can also be used to
talk about future arrangements.
Formation:
Simple Present of 'to be' + -ING
Past Continuous (past progressive)

It is used for actions and states that were unfinished at a certain time in the past or to stress the
duration of something.
Formation:
Past Simple of TO BE + ING
Present Perfect Continuous (Present Perfect Progressive)

The Present Perfect Progressive is used to emphasize the duration of a recent past activity. It can
also be used for actions that began in the past and are still going on now.
Formation:
HAVE + BEEN + Present Participle
Past Perfect Continuous (Past Perfect Progressive)

The Past Perfect Progressive is used for actions that were unfinished when another action, etc., took
place:
I had been living there for years before I got married.
Formation:
HAD + BEEN + ING
Future Continuous (Future Progressive)

The Future Progressive is used for actions that will be unfinished at a certain time in the future, or
for things that will happen in the normal course of events, rather than being part of your plans and
intentions.
Formation:
WILL + BE + -ING
Future Perfect Continuous Future Perfect Progressive)

The future perfect progressive is used for actions that will be unfinished, but have reached a certain
stage:
This time next month, I'll have been living here for three years.
Formation:
WILL + HAVE + BEEN + Present Participle
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5. Copula Verbs
A copula (also spelled copular) verb is a verb that connects the subject to the complement. They are
sometimes called linking verbs.
▪ That food smells nice.
('Smells' connects the subject to the adjective that describes it.)
The following are the principal Copula Verbs in English that can be used to connect the subject to an
adjective:
Be; Look; Feel; Taste; Smell; Sound; Seem; Appear; Get; Become; Grow; Stay; Keep; Turn; Prove;
Go; Remain; Resemble; Run; Lie
6. Ditransitive Verbs
A Ditransitive Verb is one that takes both a direct object and an indirect object.
▪ He gave her the letter. ('The letter' is the direct object, what he gave, and 'her' is the indirect object,
the person he gave it to. This sentence can also be written 'He gave the letter to her'.)
7. Dynamic Verbs
A dynamic verb is one that can be used in the progressive (continuous) aspect, indicating an
unfinished action.
▪ She's lying on the bed. (An incomplete action in progress)
8. Ergative Verbs
Ergative verbs are found in sentences where the verb affects the subject:
▪ The sun melted the butter.
Here, we have a sentence with a standard subject, a transitive verb and a direct object.
▪ The butter melted.
Here, the subject was the object of the original sentence. The butter didn't melt itself- it required the
heat of the sun. This is an ergative verb use, where the subject of the intransitive form of the verb
would be the object of the transitive form of the verb.
9. Finite Verbs
The finite forms of a verb are the forms where the verb shows tense, person or singular plural. Non-
finite verb forms have no person, tense or number.
▪ I go, she goes, he went - These verb forms are finite.
▪ To go, going - These verb forms are non-finite.
10. Inchoative Verbs

An inchoative verb is a verb that describes a change of state.
▪ The apples ripened. (The apples became ripe.)
▪ He has aged a lot. (He has become old.)
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11. Intransitive Verbs
An intransitive verb is one that does not take an object.

▪ They arrived. (The verb does not require an object to complete it.)
They do not have a passive form.
12. Irregular Verbs
An irregular verb is one that does not take the -ed ending for the Past Simple and Past Participle
forms. Some irregular verbs do not change; put put put, while others change completely; buy bought,
bought, etc.
Irregular verbs fall into 5 categories:
▪ Base Form
▪ Past Simple
▪ Past Participle
▪ 3rd Person Singular
▪ Present Participle / Gerund
13. Linking Verbs
A linking verb is a verb that connects the subject to the complement. They are sometimes called
copula or copular verbs.
▪ That food smells good.
('Smells' connects the subject to the adjective that describes it.)
The following are the principal linking verbs in English that can be used to connect the subject to an
adjective:
Be; Look; Feel; Taste; Smell; Sound; Seem; Appear; Get; Become; Grow; Stay; Keep; Turn; Prove;
Go; Remain; Resemble; Run; Lie
14. Main Verbs
The main verb is the most important verb in a sentence; without it, the sentence would not be
complete.
15. Middle Verbs
A middle verb is one that is grammatically active, though the meaning is closer to the passive. In
some languages, this is recognized as a voice.
▪ Porcelain breaks easily.
Porcelain doesn't break anything, though the sentence is active, but porcelain can be broken easily.
This is an example of a middle verb, where it shows features of both the active and the passive.
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16. Modal Verbs
Modal verbs are used to express ideas such as possibility, intention, obligation and necessity.
CAN, COULD, WILL, WOULD, SHALL, SHOULD, OUGHT TO, DARE and NEED are some
examples.
▪ I would have told you, if you had wanted me to.
▪ Yes, I can do that.
17. Non-Finite Verbs
The non-finite forms of a verb have no tense, person or singular plural.

The infinitive and present and past participles are the non-finite parts of a verb; To do; doing; done
18. Performative Verbs
A performative verb is a verb where saying it or writing it performs the action itself. If you say, 'I
resign', then saying it performs the act of resignation. In ceremonies like baptism, naming ships, etc.,
performative verbs are used.
19. Phrasal Verbs
A phrasal verb consists of a verb and a preposition or adverb that modifies or changes the meaning;
'give up' is a phrasal verb that means 'stop doing' something, which is very different from 'give'. The
word or words that modify a verb in this manner can also go under the name particle.
Phrasal verbs can be divided into groups:
Inseparable verbs
The object must come after the particle.
▪ They are looking after their grandchildren.
Separable verbs
With some separable verbs, the object must come between the verb and the particle:
▪ The quality of their work sets them apart from their rivals.
With some separable verbs, the object can before or after the particle, though when a pronoun is used
it comes before the particle:
▪ Turn the TV off.
▪ Turn off the TV.
▪ Turn it off.
20. Reflexive Verbs
A reflexive verb is a transitive verb one of whose object is a reflexive pronoun (myself, yourself, etc.)
referring back to its subject. In some languages, reflexive verbs are a special class of verbs with
special semantics and syntax, but in English, they typically represent ordinary uses of transitive verbs.
For example, with the verb see:
▪ He sees her as a writer.
▪ She sees herself as a writer.
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Nonetheless, sometimes English reflexive verbs have a passive sense, expressing an agent less action.
Consider the verb solve, as in the following sentences:
▪ He solved the problem.
▪ The problem solved itself.
One could not say that the problem truly solved anything; rather, what is meant is that the problem
was solved without anyone's solving it.
Similarly, certain transitive verbs can take a subject referring to a person and an object referring to
the same person or to one of his body parts, again with a passive sense. Consider the verb break:
▪ Her leg was broken in a car accident.
▪ She broke her leg in a car accident.
The two sentences are almost synonymous, but the explicit passive construction is less idiomatic.
21. Regular Verbs
A regular verb is one that follows the pattern of taking -ed for the past simple and past participle (or -
dif the verb ends in -e; smoke smoked).
▪ walk walked walked
As regular verbs follow a fixed pattern, there is no irregular verb list in existence.
22. Stative Verbs
Stative verbs are verbs that describe a state and consequently the stative verb is not usually used in
the progressive aspect, which is used for incomplete actions in progress.
STATIVE VERB EXAMPLE:
▪ They own a cottage in Somerset.
(The possession is a state and not an action. We cannot write this sentence in the progressive aspect)
23. Transitive Verb
A Transitive Verb is one that takes an object.

▪ He opened the door. ('Door' is the object of the action; it is affected by the operation.)
An ambi-transitive verb can be both transitive and intransitive without changing the verb:
▪ I read my newspaper.
▪ I always read in bed.
In the first sentence, read is used transitively, with the direct object newspaper, while in the second
there's no object, so it is being used intransitively.
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24. Verb Group
A verb group consists of a verb and an auxiliary verb or a modal verb:

EXAMPLES OF VERB GROUPS:
▪ She shouldn't do that. (Modal + verb)
▪ I haven't seen her. (Auxiliary + verb)
25. Verb Phrase
The verb phrase is the main verb plus the complement, object, and/or adverbial:
▪ She sent me a lovely birthday card.
(Everything except the subject, 'she', is the verb phrase)
26. Verbs
Verbs are one of the major grammatical groups, and all sentences must contain one. Verbs refer to
an action (do, break, walk, etc.) or a state (be, like, own).
The verb tense shows the time of the action or state. Aspect shows whether the action or state is
completed or not. Voice is used to show relationships between the action and the people affected by
it. Mood shows the attitude of the speaker about the verb, whether it is a declaration or an order.
Verbs can be affected by person and number to show agreement with the subject.
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Let&#39;s Talk Tenses

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Let’s Talk

Tenses - Quick & Simple Guide to English Tenses

Book Design and Production: English with Ajarn Mieder

Copyright © 2018 by Mieder van Loggerenberg

Let’s Talk is a trademark of Mieder van Loggerenberg. All rights reserved.

4. Present have / has + V3 I have listened to you. He listened to you.

7. Present am / are / is + Ving I am listening to you. He is listening to you.

4. Present have / has + V3 I have posted pictures... He has posted a picture...

7. Present am / are / is + Ving I am posting pictures... He is posting a picture...

SVO (Passive Voice)

Past Perfect Continuous

Actions Happening Now

PAST CONTINUOUS Interrupted Action

Past Before the Past

Completed Action Before

FUTURE PERFECT How Long Before Future

USE 2: FACTS OR GENERALIZATIONS

USE 3: SCHEDULED EVENTS IN THE NEAR FUTURE

USE 4: NOW (NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS)

Stative verbs can’t be written as continuous form, for example:

Here are some examples of stative verbs:

Some verbs can be both stative and dynamic:

taste also: smell, feel, look

USE 2: A SERIES OF COMPLETED ACTIONS

USE 3: DURATION IN PAST

USE 4: HABITS IN THE PAST

IMPORTANT WHEN-CLAUSES HAPPEN FIRST

USE 1: "WILL" TO EXPRESS A VOLUNTARY ACTION

USE 2: "WILL" TO EXPRESS A PROMISE

USE 3: "BE GOING TO" TO EXPRESS A PLAN

USE 4: "WILL" OR "BE GOING TO" TO EXPRESS A PREDICTION

NO FUTURE IN TIME CLAUSES

TOPIC 2: CHANGE OVER TIME

TOPIC 5: MULTIPLE ACTIONS AT DIFFERENT TIMES

USE 2: DURATION FROM THE PAST UNTIL NOW (NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS)

USE 2: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE PAST (NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS)

IMPORTANT: SPECIFIC TIMES WITH THE PAST PERFECT

USE 1: COMPLETED ACTION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE

USE 2: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE (NON-CONTINUOUS

REMEMBER NO FUTURE IN TIME CLAUSES

USE 2: LONGER ACTIONS IN PROGRESS NOW

USE 3: NEAR FUTURE

USE 4: REPETITIONS AND IRRITATION WITH "ALWAYS"

USE 2: SPECIFIC TIME AS AN INTERRUPTION

USE 3: PARALLEL ACTIONS

USE 5: REPETITION AND IRRITATION WITH "ALWAYS"

WHILE VS. WHEN

REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

USE 1: INTERRUPTED ACTION IN THE FUTURE

USE 2: SPECIFIC TIME AS AN INTERRUPTION IN THE FUTURE

USE 4: ATMOSPHERE IN THE FUTURE

REMEMBER NO FUTURE IN TIME CLAUSES

AND REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

USE 2: RECENTLY, LATELY

REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS/ MIXED VERBS

USE 2: CAUSE OF SOMETHING IN THE PAST

PAST CONTINUOUS VS. PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

USE 1: DURATION BEFORE SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE

USE 2: CAUSE OF SOMETHING IN THE FUTURE

He will be tired because he will have been exercising so hard.

REMEMBER NO FUTURE IN TIME CLAUSES

AND REMEMBER NON-CONTINUOUS VERBS / MIXED VERBS

USE 2: PAST FACTS AND GENERALIZATIONS

Let's Talk Tenses

Let's Talk Tenses