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Anonymous Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

I've been/I am

Hi;

I'm reading a really great book. - Present continuous. Temporary situation.
I've been reading a really great book. Present perfect continuous.

Is the second sentence correct? Can I use it like the first one? Do native speakers prefer present continuous in such cases?
  

Top answer

Anonymous Is the second sentence correct? Can I use it like the first one? Do native speakers prefer present continuous in such cases?

— Mister Micawber

  • Anonymous Is the second sentence correct?
  • Can I use it like the first one?
  • Do native speakers prefer present continuous in such cases?
  • Yes, yes and maybe (I think both are quite common).
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11 Answers
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AnonymousIs the second sentence correct? Can I use it like the first one? Do native speakers prefer present continuous in such cases?
Yes, yes and maybe (I think both are quite common).
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Does the same 'rule' apply in cases like this one?

I'm writing a letter.
I've been writing a letter.

(at this very moment)
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Do you sense some difference between 'reading' and 'writing'?
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Oh. When I said reading I thought like 'reading a book these days'. Is present continuous still OK?

The last question. What tense do you use in cases like this one when you have a choice?

I've been hearing a lot of weird noises these days/this month/this week/today/this year/
I'm hearing a lot of weird noises these days/this month/this week/today/this year/

Thanks.
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I'd most likely use present perfect continuous.
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Do you occasionally use present continuous in such cases?
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I don't know—I pay no attention, actually.
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The last question! Can I express annoyance by using present simple? As in: She always makes me feel sad.
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You can express annoyance in any verb form with the right tone of voice and facial expression.
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The last question! This isn't incorrect? I'm hearing a lot of weird noises these days/this month/this week/today/this year/
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