have been IN London

Question

Hi,Could somebody please explain me the difference betweenhave been TO someplaceandhave been IN someplace ??Following in from Murphy's English Grammar in Use (Unit 22. Past perfect, section C)Ann had just got home when I phoned her. She had been in London.Why not "...to London"?thank you!mus-te

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

MUSCOVITEAnn had just got home when I phoned her. She had been in London.

She had been busy doing things in London.

She had been to London ~ She had traveled to London and returned; she had visited London.

been in a place suggests activities done there.
been to a place almost suggests tourism!

CJ

MUSCOVITE · Answer

Thanks for your comments!

One follow-up question for you if I may.

Which of the following sentences are correct grammar/natural English?

If this the first time you have been IN Mr Drake's Tokio office?
If this the first time you have been IN Finland?
If this the first time you have been IN NYC?

If this the first time you have been TO Mr Drake's Tokio office?
If this the first time you have been TO Finland?
If this the first time you have been TO NYC?

mus-te

CalifJim · Answer

Speaking of typos ... Is this the first time ...

They are all correct and natural to my ear.

In the case of the office, I take 'in' to apply purely to a physical presence inside the office, maybe just to see the new paint, and I take 'to' to apply to a visit to the office to do business with Mr. Drake.

I see less difference in the case of countries and cities, though I prefer 'to' in such cases.

CJ

MUSCOVITE · Answer

Perfect!!
Thanks a lot!

have been IN London

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