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MrEARTHSHAcKER Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

Present perfect + present simple?

I have recently said "I have tried.... but I can't find".
It doesn't seem 100% correct. but I have used combination of these Tenses in order to say that I have recently tried to do something and I keep on trying from time to time, but I still can't do it.
Hmm... is it correct, or I'd have to use "I have tried...but I couldn't find"?

Thank you!
  

Top answer

can't find might imply that you will continue your search, while couldn't find might imply that you have stopped searching. Note: both parts of the sentences need complement

— Philip

  • can't find might imply that you will continue your search, while couldn't find might imply that you have stopped searching.
  • Note: both parts of the sentences need complement
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4 Answers
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can't find might imply that you will continue your search, while couldn't find might imply that you have stopped searching.

Note: both parts of the sentences need complement
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Well, I have an intent to keep searching, that's why I have used first phrase instead of another one.

About note, you mean I'd need to complete my sentence, for example, this way:
"I have tried to find something, but I can't find it."
Right?

Thank you for replying
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If you intend to keep looking:
I have been trying to find my glasses, but I haven't been able to find them. -- This tells me you will continue to search.

I have tried to find some shoes to go with this dress, but I ...

And even though I tried to write "but I couldn't" or "but I can't" the only thing that feels right is "I haven't been able to." I may not abandon my search alt
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Grammar Geek, thank you for detailed reply!
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