Present perfect continuous tense in English
Sign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsSign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsWe offer both private lessons and organized group courses
Sign up for free to get all available courses or contact one of our teachers yourself!
Our offer
In this chapter the present perfect continuous will be explained. This tense is used for actions that have started in the past, but continue in the present.
To form the present perfect continuous the auxiliary verb 'to have' is used, followed by the participle of the verb 'to be' plus the present participle of the main verb.
Examples:
How the present perfect continuous is formed, depends on whether the sentence is:
Take online language lessons with a professional teacher
Structure: subject / pronoun + form of the verb 'to have' + 'been' + present participle of the main verb + rest of the sentence
The table below shows the conjugation of the auxiliary verb 'to have' in combination with the participle of the verb 'to be'.
Subject | Conjugation of 'to have' + 'been' |
---|---|
I | have been |
You | have been |
He / she / it | has been |
We | have been |
You | have been |
They | have been |
Examples:
Structure: subject / pronoun + negative form of the verb 'to have' (have not/ has not) + 'been' + present participle of the main verb + rest of the sentence
The table below shows the conjugation of the verb 'to have' in combination with the participle of the verb 'to be' in the negative form.
Subject | Conjugation of 'to have'+ negation + 'been' |
---|---|
I | have not been |
You | have not been |
He / she / it | has not been |
We | have not been |
You | have not been |
They | have not been |
Examples:
Structure: form of the verb 'to have' + subject / pronoun + 'been' + present participle of the main verb + rest of the sentence + question mark
Subject | Interrogative |
---|---|
I | Have I been ... ? |
You | Have you been ... ? |
He / she / it | Has he / she / it been ... ? |
We | Have we been ... ? |
You | Have you been ... ? |
They | Have they been ... ? |
Examples:
The present perfect continuous is used to refer to an event or action that happened in the past and is still going on in the present or recently stopped. The table below shows the different situations in which the present perfect continuous is used.
Situation | Examples |
---|---|
You want to express the idea of an activity in progress until recently or until the time of speaking. |
|
You want to talk about an event or action that started in the past, but is still going on. |
|
The present perfect continuous refers to a non-specific time period, so it is usually accompanied by the following signal words:
Test your knowledge of the present perfect continuous with the exercises below!
Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.
I am an English language teacher with a strong academic background and a love of languages. I enjoy helping people to develop their ability to use English in different contexts.
I have the internationally recognised Cambridge CELTA qualification (Pass A) in English language teaching. I am teaching English to those learning for professional reasons or academic study as well as those learning for personal reasons or holidays. I am able to teach all levels from beginner to advanced (CEFR Levels A1-C2). I usually teach adults.
I have studied social sciences to PhD level and have experience of working in universities as a researcher, including giving tutorials. I have also worked as a professional proofreader.
I speak British English and I have an appreciation of other varieties of English, sometimes referred to as ‘Global Englishes’, as well as the use of English as a ‘lingua franca’ or common language.
I have been trained in the ‘communicative approach’ to language teaching. This approach is based on the idea that the best way for us to learn a language is through using it in communication that is meaningful for us. My lessons will help you to learn English through using it in activities and tasks that are connected to your reasons for learning English and your wider interests. The lessons will include vocabulary, grammar and other aspects of language as well as the four skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, depending on your priorities. I would like to have some background information about you, including why you are learning English, your professional and/or personal interests and your first language. I can then create lessons that meet your individual needs with activities that are personalised for you.
I have also been trained in teaching English online and I am familiar with a range of digital tools that can make the lessons effective and interesting. I am also familiar with several sources of professionally designed study materials that are publicly available for adaptation for different learners. I will give you feedback on your strengths and on how to improve. I can also give guidance on homework and other resources you can access, if this is of interest to you.
I welcome your feedback on each lesson.
I have experience of learning languages myself, including Mandarin and Turkish, which I really enjoy. I hope that you will enjoy my English lessons.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Emily is a native speaker, this is why she is an ideal teacher if you want to learn more than only the English language. She teaches to adults and to all levels A1 until C2. She has lots of different and interactive learning materials. Overall, she is a great teacher, and you will surely learn a lot from her.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
*I graduted from Marmara University (Top university in Turkey for Turkish language and literature teaching).
*I'm native Turkish language teacher.
*I worked at international colleges, language courses and online teaching platforms since 2005.
**I'm writing doctorate thesis about teaching Turkish to foreigners.
*I wrote many Turkish language course books and story books for foreigners.
*I use many effecting teaching methods in my lesson.
*I can understand your needs and create lessons.
*I had more than 2500 foreign students (65+ nationalities) before.
*You can learn all language skills (speaking, reading, writing, listening), grammar and vocabulary.
*Personalized lesson for your needs.
*Sending lesson note end of each lesson (Word or pdf)
*Special videos, presentations, activities, overwievs for all topics
*Sending free materials (Books, exercises, videos, lesson notes)
*Writing online level exam
*Having certificate end of the course (optional)
*Speak and write fluently in a short time. You understand well what you read and listen.
*Homework after each lesson
*I can create the course content according to your request.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Murat has over 15 years of teaching experience. He has a variety of learning materials. He has written several learning books and video's to go along with it. Furthermore, he is well-prepared and patient.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi, welcome to my profile!
My name is Alessia and I currently live in Italy. I spent a few years in the United States where I deepened my knowledge of English and American dialects. I am currently specializing in Spanish and German. Over the years, I have given private lessons in Italian, English, Spanish, and Japanese, with Japanese being the most requested at the moment. Regarding Japanese, I had the opportunity to teach the language at an American college with a native Japanese teacher, applying the method that they use to learn their own language. I will help you in a simple way; conversation is really important for learning a language, and a good method is even more fundamental. No days spent on textbooks are needed; consistency and fun during lessons are the most important parts of learning. You will see results right away! I am patient, flexible, and will adapt in every way to your personal needs. I look forward to seeing you on my profile for a trial lesson and discovering an easy and fun method to learn a language as soon as possible.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Alessia is a really nice teacher with a lovely personality. It was very helpful. I recommend her for anyone, child or adult. Thank you
Alessia T.Thank you , I really appreciate it!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am a certified TEFL teacher and have taught ESL for the past three years. I can help you become more confident in speaking the English language which I believe is one of the most important parts of learning a language. If you want to pass exams I can also help you prepare for them and create lessons focused on listening, writing, oral and reading. I love traveling and if you are interested we can talk about the difference in cultures or any known sites in that country. We can speak about any categories you choose from politics to nature, I can build a class on that. I will help you in any way you can from beginners to advance I want to help you learn English!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I liked the conversion we had - teacher changed topic few time topic in the right direction and it help very much for speaking.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello, my name is Corinne and I am a qualified ESL English teacher from England. I have been teaching in classrooms and online for over 3 years and I have many satisfied students.
My lessons are student-centred and usually take place on Skype. I treat every student as an individual and tailor my lessons to meet their goals. I use a variety of text books and free online resources including exercises, articles and videos. I usually give out a little homework at the end of each lesson to reinforce what we have done together.
In your first lesson, we will discuss your needs and check your current level. From this, we can decide what sort of lessons will suit you the best. Perhaps you struggle with grammar and sentence structure? Perhaps you need to practice English for a specific purpose, like understanding lectures, making phone calls at work, or travelling? Or perhaps you need a structured course so that you can learn English step by step?
Whatever you need, I’m here to help. I see it as my job to make you feel safe, build your confidence and make your lessons enjoyable. I look forward to hearing from you and to helping you on your path to speaking better English. Book your first lesson now and let’s get started.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Corinne is a kind, professional teacher and a great person! I strongly recommend her excellent lessons.
Corinne P.Thank you, Anastasiia!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello! I am a CELTA-qualified native English teacher offering lessons carefully tailored to your needs. Learn by dynamic conversation exchange, written pieces, songs lyrics, podcasts, and fun and challenging exercises.
I have a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and have been rock climbing for about 25 years. As an Italian language learner myself, I believe that talking about your passions is one of the most effective ways of mastering a new language. I look forward to hearing about your interests!
I offer a free 15-minute meeting to discuss your personal goals for learning. Let’s work together to bring you closer to those English language goals!
-Parlo italiano-
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
she is a professional mother language teacher. She is strongly problem solving oriented. She offers a wide range of tools to learn the language. She has a nice way of teaching.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Catherine is very professional, I found the class very helpful and would fully recommend her as a teacher Thanks Catherine !
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
My education is :
Master in Art & Businees George Washington University
Tesol certifiction from Wordl Academic London UK 2.020
Br degree in Accountant Catholic University America .
Working for more than 8 years teaching ESL as second Language in : USA , UK , Latin America , Spain .
My teaching methods are : Using American Learning Program explain :
Subject + verb + Complement
and learning : nouns , verb , adjetive , adverb , modals , in general preparation TOEFL test .
Addicional I am preparing Power Point material to help you .
Having : Seft Study Book ( Digital ) to talk together and fill out sentences .
Reader American Family Book ( Level begginer and advanced )
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Mirna has a lot of teaching experience. She is patient and teaches Spanish grammar among other things. She can also help you with your business language.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Oksana is a very experienced teacher. She has written several Russian course books. Since she is a native speaker, she can teach you more than only the language. Her classes also include culture, she adjusts her classes to your needs. She is an enthusiastic teacher, ready to help you learn a new language!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Laurie has been working since 2016. She teaches French from the levels A1 until C1. Her learning materials are very interactive, games, quizzes, videos etc. You will surely learn a lot from her!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
My name is Alexis Joseph, I am a TESOL/ TEFL Certified teacher with a Bachelor’s degree in Education Major in Modern Languages, a postgraduate degree of Specialization in Teaching English as a Second Language and a Master's degree in Science of Education Major in School Management and I am very interactive and dynamic.
I have seven years of teaching experience in the classroom and online, I have worked with students of all ages from children to adults and for different institutions as an academic coordinator and language area coordinator, in addition I have taught ESL / EFL, English Language Arts, English Conversation, Spanish and Basic French to students of multiple nationalities.
I hope to see you in my class!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Alexis has over 7 years of teaching experience. He has experience in teaching to people from all around over the world. His classes are very interactive. Furthermore, he teaches English from A1 to B2 and Spanish to all levels. You will surely learn a lot!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello everyone!
My name is Elena! I have been teaching French to children and to adults for 13 years.
I fell in love with French language, literature, history and culture years ago. And today I help people to learn this beautiful language.
In 2008 I started working in an AUF member university and I’ve spend six years teaching general and professional French language skills to students and preparing them for DELF/DALF/TCF examinations.
Later I collaborated with several language schools working with children and adults and as a privat tutor.
Now I teache in Alliance Française and I continue to give privat lessons. I also work as a French - Russian interpreter.
In 2017 I started teaching online and I know how to make learning fun, creative end efficient to people of all ages and needs. In my opinion, any study should be a pleasure, so I do my best to make my students enjoy the lessons and progress in speaking, reading, writing, listening and grammar at the same time.
Contact me to book a trial lesson and for any question you may have!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Elena has over 10 years of teaching experience. She has taught to children and young adults. She teaches French to all levels (A1-C2) and Russian tot A1 until B2. Furthermore, she is very eager to help you learn a new language. She helps you learn in an interactive and fun way!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
there is no offer since there are no students
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Carl is an experienced teacher. He provides personalized lessons and learning materials. He teaches all ages.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
John S.Thanks Mei-Lin, it was a joy having you in class.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Recently, the health situation has prompted me to leave my home country and start a professional retraining. Passionate about English since childhood, I chose to do the TEFL Course to be able to teach the language. Having just graduated with distinction, I would now like to move on to the next step of my apprenticeship : Teaching.
My first lessons will be based on the PPP method or Presentation-Practice-Production. This method consists, first of all, in presenting or having people guess the target language before giving learners the opportunity to practice it through controlled activities. During the last step of the lesson, students have the opportunity to produce the language in freer activities.
I will try, as much as possible, to give my students a way to discover the target language for themselves, based on their existing knowledge. Also, since the practice of a foreign language requires oral comprehension, my lessons will be entirely given in English.
My classes are open to everyone!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Clément is a new teacher and is eager to help you learn English. He specializes in teaching the levels A1 until B2. He is patient and structures his class according to the PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) Method. You are guaranteed to learn a lot from him!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello, my name is Allison! I have been teaching German for four years and English for two. I work to fit my lessons my students' needs as well as trying to make them enjoyable.
In terms of special topics, I have experience giving lessons in German pronunciation. Also, in addition to my BA in German Studies, I also have an undergraduate degree in music.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to meeting you!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
After nearly 100 lessons still interesting, lot of fun and many things I learned. I feel able to talk and follow conversations with others. Thanks a lot!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials