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GSivakumar Posted 17 years ago
Grammar

Sent vs have sent

Hi
I am new to this forum. I have one question to start with.
What is the difference between "I sent the letter today" and "I have sent the letter today".
Thanks
Sivakumar
  

Top answer

Hello, Sivakumar-- and welcome to English Forums. Use the present perfect when the action relates to now in some way, and the simple past when the action is finished and done with. When you say 'I have sent the letter today', it stresses the recentness of the action or it is said in response to a present inquiry as to the letter's status, for example.

— Mister Micawber

  • Hello, Sivakumar-- and welcome to English Forums.
  • Use the present perfect when the action relates to now in some way, and the simple past when the action is finished and done with.
  • When you say 'I have sent the letter today', it stresses the recentness of the action or it is said in response to a present inquiry as to the letter's status, for example.
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3 Answers
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Hello, Sivakumar-- and welcome to English Forums.

Use the present perfect when the action relates to now in some way, and the simple past when the action is finished and done with. When you say 'I have sent the letter today', it stresses the recentness of the action or it is said in response to a present inquiry as to the letter's status, for example.
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A general rule of thumb is not to be specific as to when an action occured with the present perfect:

I have eaten there many times;

we have often been told;

she has never offended me;

you have always been faithful;

I have seen that movie twice;

etc.
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