past tense

Anisha M.C1Kwiziq community member

past tense

why don´t we use the preterite imperfect or preterite, as the event has happened already in the past and the preterite perfect gives some sense that it is still continuing?

Asked 6 months ago
SilviaNative Spanish expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hola Anisha

When deciding between using the preterite and the present perfect in Spanish, context plays a crucial role.

The preterite is used for actions that are seen as completed in the past with no connection to the present.

In contrast, the present perfect is used for actions that occurred in the past but are relevant to or continue to influence the present moment. This relevance to the present or the unspecified time frame is why the present perfect is often used instead of the preterite, even for past events.

I'll add some hints to those particular snippets to clarify the distinction.

Saludos

Silvia

past tense

why don´t we use the preterite imperfect or preterite, as the event has happened already in the past and the preterite perfect gives some sense that it is still continuing?

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