Present perfect continuous
Use the present perfect continuous for activities continuing until now or causing a visible present result.
Learning goal: Present perfect continuous
Form have or has been plus verb-ing and recognise when an ongoing activity is emphasized.
In a nutshell
Use the present perfect continuous for activities continuing until now or causing a visible present result.
When do we use it?
Form have or has been plus verb-ing and recognise when an ongoing activity is emphasized.
Pattern
Form
Use have/has been + verb-ing for duration, continuation or recent activity.
- I have been studying for two hours.
- It has been raining.
- Have you been waiting long?
Examples
Key contrast
Read the whole context and identify the time, meaning, noun type or sentence structure before choosing.
Watch out
Common mistakes
I have studying.→ I have been studying.She has been work.→ She has been working.
Key takeaway
Remember
Use the present perfect continuous for activities continuing until now or causing a visible present result.
Self-check
Quick check
- Find the grammar clue.
- Check the subject and verb form.
- Confirm that the answer fits both structure and meaning.
Put it into practice
Ready to test Present perfect continuous?
A short interactive practice session with instant feedback — about 10 questions calibrated to C1 Advanced.
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