Present perfect continuous
B1 IntermediateThe present perfect continuous describes actions that started in the past and are still happening now, or actions that have recently finished and have a visible result.
Overview
This tense focuses on the duration or the process of an activity. It connects the past to the present in two main ways:
- An action that began in the past and continues into the present moment.
- An action that has just stopped but has a clear effect or result in the present.
Form
subject + have/has + been + verb-ing
The tense is formed using the auxiliary verb have or has, the past participle been, and the -ing form of the main verb.
Present Perfect Simple vs. Continuous
Use the continuous form when you want to emphasize how long something has been happening, often using for or since.
| Present Perfect Simple | Present Perfect Continuous |
|---|---|
| Focuses on the result or completion: 'I have painted the room.' (The job is finished). | Focuses on the activity or duration: 'I have been painting the room.' (I might still be painting). |
| Used with state verbs (know, like, believe). | Used with action verbs (run, wait, work). |
Examples
Common mistakes
I am waiting here for three hours.
I have been waiting here for three hours.
Use the present perfect continuous, not the present continuous, to say how long an action has been happening.
I have been knowing him for years.
I have known him for years.
State verbs like 'know' are not usually used in the continuous form.
Practice
Complete the sentence: She is out of breath because she ___ (run).
Show answer
has been running
Answer:has been running
Why:The present perfect continuous is used for a recent activity that has a visible result in the present (being out of breath).
Correct the error: We are living in this house since 2015.
Show answer
We have been living in this house since 2015.
Answer:We have been living in this house since 2015.
Why:When using 'since' to describe an action that started in the past and continues now, the present perfect continuous is required.
Choose the correct form: I (have been reading / have read) this book all morning and I'm only on page 10.
Show answer
have been reading
Answer:have been reading
Why:The phrase 'all morning' emphasizes the duration and ongoing nature of the activity, making the continuous form the best choice.