Already + at (use of present perfect)
Hi Grammar Experts!
I'd like to ask for your opinion about this sentence. Context: someone comes up to me inside a store and tells me I parked my car in the wrong place. I say: "It's not my car. I have already explained that to the employee at the front entrance."
Checking on the use of the present perfect in this sentence. I am using 'already', which typically comes with the present perfect. On the other hand, I am no longer at the front entrance, so that moment in time is now gone. If you look it at that way, only the simple past works.
I know the simple past definitely works in this case. But can I use the present perfect also?
I hope my question is clear. Thank you.
Top answer
anonymous I have already explained that to the employee at the front entrance. That's fine. anonymous I am no longer at the front entrance, so that moment in time is now gone.
- anonymous I have already explained that to the employee at the front entrance.
- That's fine.
- anonymous I am no longer at the front entrance, so that moment in time is now gone.
- That's not enough time when you're still talking about the same situation.
- Actually, I prefer the present perfect.
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anonymousI have already explained that to the employee at the front entrance.
That's fine.
anonymousI am no longer at the front entrance, so that moment in time is now gone.
That's not enough time when you're still talking about the same situation.
Actually, I prefer the present perfect.
CJ
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