Past simple

Question

Let's say someone just said something. And I say:

I didn't understand. or
I haven't understood.

Which one would be correct here?

And which one would be correct if I was commenting on a cake?

It's nice. I didn't make it, though.
It's nice. I haven't made it, though.

Thanks.

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

Simple Past, in both cases.

Clive

Whatchadoin · Answer

OK. The last question. Why doesn't present perfect work here? Thanks.

CalifJim · Answer

whatchadoinLet's say someone just said something. And I say:I didn't understand. orI haven't understood.Which one would be correct here?

I didn't understand (what you said). Someone said something. You (immediately) tried to understand it. You (immediately) failed to understand it. Then there's at least a small time gap between hearing what was said and reporting your failure.

The other one would be used in a different context.

I haven't understood a word you've said all day. Continued attempts to understand. All fail. The situation is still in effect. No time gap between the beginning of not understanding and the present moment.

whatchadoinAnd which one would be correct if I was commenting on a cake?It's nice. I didn't make it, though.It's nice. I haven't made it, though.

I didn't make it, though. Someone made the cake. The cake was finished. Then there's a time gap between when the cake was made and the present comment on the cake.

The other one would be used in a different context.

— Have you ever made a cake? (Considering all moments in time from past to present. No time gap.)
— No, I haven't.
(Note the indefinite 'a'. Without a specialized context you can't ask "Have you ever made the cake?")

Or,
— Do you remember? You promised to make a cake for our dinner tomorrow.
— Right, but I haven't made it yet. (The clock is still running. The obligation still holds. No time gap with the present moment.)

CJ

Past simple

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