Been skiing gone skiing

Question

HelloI wish I had gone skiing more often last winter.I wish I had been skiing more often last winter.Is it correct to say both of the above?And does last winter mean last year's (201/11) winter or the one that has just finished (2011/12)?Appreciate any helpPhilip

Avangi · Accepted Answer

AnonymousIs it correct to say both of the above?

Yes.
They really mean the same thing. In this case, "had been skiing" is NOT an example of past continuous tense, as in "I had been skiing all day long."

AnonymousAnd does last winter mean last year's (201/11) winter or the one that has just finished (2011/12)?

This depends to a large extent on the time of year during which the statement is made.
In some cases, you really need to ask the speaker this question!

It usually refers to the skiing season most recently completed.
But if the statement is made during the tail end of the season, the speaker may be referring to the "current" season.
Additionally, some regions have a longer season than others.

If, as you say, the "winter" has just finished, without further context, the speaker is most likely referring to the current season.

Native speakers are often uncertain about another speaker's intention when this expression is used.

- A.

Anonymous · Answer

Hi Avangi
I appreciate your answer. Thanks very much.
Can I ask one more question. Which of the 2 is more natural to use when thinking about skiing last winter?
I wish i had gone skiing more often last winter
I wish i had been skiing more often last winter
I think this OK for soccer, baseball etc
I wish I had played more often last season.
been and gone are a little bit difficult.
Thanks
Philip

Been skiing gone skiing

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions