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The present continuous is used to talk about present situations which we see as
short-term or temporary. We use the present simple to talk about present
situations which we see as long-term or permanent.
In these examples, the action is taking place at the time of speaking.
It's raining.
In these examples, the action is true at the present time but we don't think it will
be true in the long term.
In these examples, the action is at a definite point in the future and it has
already been arranged.
Present simple
The present simple is used to talk about actions we see as long term or
permanent. It is very common and very important.
Water freezes at 0 C or 32 F.
In these examples, we are talking about future facts, usually found in a timetable
or a chart.
In these examples, we are talking about our thoughts and feelings at the time of
speaking. Notice that, although these feelings can be short-term, we use the
present simple and not the present continuous.
facts
I don't understand.
Notice how in all these examples we use the present continuous to talk about
events which are temporary/limited in time and the present simple to talk about
events which are habits/permanent.
Past simple
3
We use the past simple to talk about actions and states which we see as
completed in the past.
We can use it to talk about a specific point in time.
You will often find the past simple used with time expressions such as these:
Yesterday
last year
in 2002
for 6 weeks
in the 1980s
in the past
Past continuous
We use the past simple to talk about actions and states which we see as
completed in the past.
Only use the past continuous when you want to emphasize the continuity of the
action.
When we use these two forms in the same sentence, we use the past continuous
to talk about the "background action" and the past simple to talk about the
shorter completed action.
Present perfect
(Please note that British and American English have different rules for the use of
this tense. The explanation and exercises here refer to British English. In
American English, it is often acceptable to use the past simple in some of these
examples.)
We use the present perfect when we want to look back from the present to the
past.
We can use it to look back on the recent past.
When we look back on the recent past, we often use the words 'just' 'already' or
the word 'yet' (in negatives and questions only).
When we look back on the more distant past, we often use the words 'ever' (in
questions) and 'never'.
The present perfect continuous is often used with 'since', 'for', 'all week', 'for
days', 'lately', 'recently', 'over the last few months'.
Often there is very little difference between the present perfect simple and the
present perfect continuous. In many cases, both are equally acceptable.
When an action is finished and you can see the results, use the continuous form.
When you use the words 'ever' or 'never', use the simple form.
(British English and American English have different rules for the use of the
present perfect. The comments being made here and the exercises state the
correct grammar for British English. However, in American English, it is often
considered acceptable to use the past simple in some of these examples.)
We use the past simple to talk about actions in the past that have finished. It
talks about 'then' and definitely excludes 'now'.
We use the present perfect simple to look back on actions in the past from the
present. It always includes 'now'.
These sentences are in the past with no connection to the present.
Typical time phrases that we use with the past simple are 'yesterday', 'ago', 'last
year', 'in 1999'.
Typical time phrases that we use with the present perfect are 'ever', 'never',
'since'.
Typical time phrases always used with the present perfect in British English but
often used with the past simple in American English are 'already', 'just', 'yet'.
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The time phrase 'for' can be used with both forms, but with different meanings.
Past perfect
We use the past perfect simple to talk about what happened before a point in the
past. It looks back from a point in the past to further in the past.
The past perfect simple is often used when we report what people had
said/thought/believed.
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We use it to say what had been happening before something else happened.
We can use the past continuous to talk about past events which went on for a
period of time.
12
We can use the present perfect when we want to look back from the present to
the past.
We can use the past perfect simple to talk about what happened before a
point in the past. It looks back from a point in the past to further in the past.
We can use the past perfect continuous to look back at a situation in progress.
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Going to
There is no one 'future tense' in English. There are 4 future forms. The one which
is used most often in spoken
English is 'going to', not 'will'.
We use 'going to' when we want to talk about a plan for the future.
Notice that this plan does not have to be for the near future.
We use 'going to' when we want to make a prediction based on evidence we can
see now.
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Will future
Some people have been taught that 'will' is 'the future' in English. This is not
correct. Sometimes when we talk about the future we cannot use 'will'.
Sometimes when we use 'will' we are not talking about the future.
We can use 'will' to talk about future events we believe to be certain.
Often we add 'perhaps', 'maybe', 'probably', 'possibly' to make the belief less
certain.
We use 'will' at the moment we make a new decision or plan. The thought has
just come into our head.
I'll go.
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Going to or will
When we want to talk about future facts or things we believe to be true about
the future, we use 'will'.
If we are not so certain about the future, we use 'will' with expressions such as
'probably', 'possibly', 'I think', 'I hope'.
If you are making a future prediction based on evidence in the present situation,
use 'going to'.
At the moment of making a decision, use 'will'. Once you have made the
decision, talk about it using 'going to'.
I'll come and have a drink with you but I must let
Harry know. Harry, I'm going to have a drink with
Simon.
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We use the present continuous to talk about things that we have already
arranged to do in the future.
In many situations when we talk about future plans we can use either the
present continuous or the 'going to' future. However, when we use the present
continuous, there is more of a suggestion that an arrangement has already been
made.
We use the present simple to talk about events in the future which are
'timetabled'. We can also use the present continuous to talk about these.
A lot of students have been confused by older textbooks which refer to 'will' as
'the future tense'.
A key factor to remember about 'will' is that when we talk about the future we
cannot always use 'will' and that when we use 'will' we are not always talking
about the future.
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When we use 'will' referring to the present, the idea being expressed is usually
one of 'showing willingness' or 'will power'.
o
18
Look again at all of these examples of 'will'. They are all to do with the present or
are 'timeless'
Shall
You only really need to know that about 'shall' in modern English. Read the rest
of this only if you want to know more about how some older speakers still use
'shall'.
In older grammar, 'shall' was used as an alternative to 'will' with 'I' and 'we'.
Today, 'will' is normally used. When we do use 'shall', it has an idea of a more
personal, subjective future.
Notice that the negative of 'shall' can be 'shall not' or 'shan't' though the
second one is now very rare in American English.
The imperative
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Do be quiet.
Do come.
Do sit down.
20
The Passive
We use the active form to say what the subject does. For example:
We use the passive form to say what happens to people and things, to say what
is done to them. For example:
We use the passive form when we don't know who did the action. For example:
We use the passive form when what was done is more important than who did it.
For example:
The ing form can be used like a noun, like an adjective or like a verb.
Smoking is forbidden.
When it is used like a noun it may or may not have an article before it.
21
In formal English, we would use a possessive with the ing form. In informal
English, many people do not.
Notice that when 'to' is used as a preposition, it is followed by the ing form.
There are many verb + -ing combinations. Here are some common ones:
22
I enjoy dancing.
Some verbs can be followed by either the infinitive or ing form but with different
meanings. Here are some common ones:
Some verbs can be followed by either the infinitive or ing form but with the
same meaning. Here are some common ones:
I love to go shopping.
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Can
We use 'can' to talk about 'possibility'.
Notice that there are two negative forms: 'can't' and 'cannot'. These mean
exactly the same thing. When we are speaking, we usually say 'can't'.
We use 'can' to talk about 'ability'.
I can't drive.
We use 'can' to ask for and give permission. (We also use 'may' for this but is
more formal and much less common.)
Can I help?
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We use 'can' with 'see' 'hear' 'feel' 'smell' 'taste' to talk about something which is
happening now . (Where you would use the present continuous with most other
verbs.)
We can use 'can't' for deduction. The opposite of 'can't' in this context is 'must'.
Could
'Could' can be used to talk about the past, the present or the future.
'Could' is a past form of 'can'
'Could' is used to make polite requests. We can also use 'can' for these but
'could' is more polite.
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If we use 'could' in reply to these requests, it suggests that we do not really want
to do it. If you agree to the request, it is better to say 'can'.
Of course I can.
It could be Sarah's.
May / might
may
We can use 'may' to ask for permission. However this is rather formal and not
used very often in modern spoken English
May I go now?
might
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Should 1
He should resign.
'Should' expresses a personal opinion and is much weaker and more personal
than 'must' or 'have to'. It is often introduced by ' I think'.
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Should 2
However, it is also possible to say exactly the same thing by omitting the 'should'
and just using the infinitive form without 'to' . Some people call this the
'subjunctive' form.
We can use 'should' after various adjectives. Typical examples are: funny,
interesting, natural, odd, strange, surprised, surprising, typical
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We can use 'should' in 'if clauses' when we believe that the possibility of
something happening is small.
Must or have to
We can use 'must' to show that we are certain something is true. We are making
a logical deduction based upon some clear evidence or reason.
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We also use 'must' to express a strong obligation. When we use 'must' this
usually means that some personal circumstance makes the obligation necessary
(and the speaker almost certainly agrees with the obligation.)
We can also use 'have to' to express a strong obligation. When we use 'have to'
this usually means that some external circumstance makes the obligation
necessary.
In British English, we often use 'have got to' to mean the same as 'have to'.
We can also use ' will have to' to talk about strong obligations. Like 'must' this
usually means that that some personal circumstance makes the obligation
necessary. (Remember that 'will' is often used to show 'willingness'.)
30
As you can see, the differences between the present forms are sometimes very
small and very subtle. However, there is a huge difference in the negative forms.
We use 'don't have to' (or 'haven't got to' in British English) to state that there is
NO obligation or necessity.
Zero conditional
When we want to talk about things that are always or generally true, we can use:
If / When / Unless plus a present form PLUS present simple or imperative
Notice that we are talking about something which is generally true, not a specific
event.
In the condition clause, there can be a variety of present forms. In the result
clause, there can only be the present simple or imperative.
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We use the First Conditional to talk about future events that are likely to happen.
32
If she hasn't heard the bad news yet, I'll tell her.
The "future clause" can contain 'going to' or the future perfect as well as 'will'.
The "future clause" can also contain other modal verbs such as 'can' and 'must'.
Second conditional
Notice that after I / he/ she /it we often use the subjunctive form 'were' and not
'was'. (Some people think that 'were' is the only 'correct' form but other people
think 'was' is equally 'correct' .)
Notice the form 'If I were you' which is often used to give advice.
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We can also use the Second Conditional to talk about 'unlikely' situations.
Notice that the choice between the first and the second conditional is often a
question of the speaker's attitude rather than of facts. For example, consider two
people Peter Pessimist and Otto Optimist.
Notice that the 'If clause' can contain the past simple or the past continuous.
Notice that the main clause can contain 'would' 'could' or 'might.
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Also notice that sometimes the 'if clause' is implied rather than spoken.
Third conditional
We can use the Third Conditional to talk about 'impossible' conditions, impossible
because they are in the past and we cannot change what has happened.
Notice that the main clause can contain 'would' 'could' or 'might.
Also notice that sometimes the 'if clause' is implied rather than spoken.
I'd have done it. ("if you had asked me but you
didn't.")
Wish
Let's start off with the easy part. ' I wish to' can mean the same as 'I want to' but
it is much, much more formal and much, much less common.
You can also use 'wish' with a noun to 'offer good wishes'.
Notice that when you want to offer good wishes using a verb, you must use 'hope
' and not 'wish'.
However, the main use of 'wish' is to say that we would like things to be different
from what they are, that we have regrets about the present situation.
Notice that the verb tense which follows 'I wish' is 'more in the past' than the
tense corresponding to its meaning.
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In the case of 'will' , where 'will' means 'show willingness' we use 'would'.
Where 'will' means a future event, we cannot use 'wish' and must use 'hope'.
In more formal English, we use the subjunctive form 'were' and not 'was' after
'wish'.
Had better
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We use had better plus the infinitive without to to give advice. Although
had is the past form of have, we use had better to give advice about the
present or future.
We use had better to give advice about specific situations, not general ones. If
you want to talk about general situations, you must use should.
When we give advice about specific situations, it is also possible to use should.
However, when we use had better there is a suggestion that if the advice is not
followed, that something bad will happen.
Used to
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'Used to do' is different from 'to be used to doing' and 'to get used to doing'
Used to do
We use 'used to' for something that happened regularly in the past but no longer
happens.
We also use it for something that was true but no longer is.
to be used to doing
We use 'to be used to doing' to say that something is normal, not unusual.
39
Questions 1
The basic rule for asking questions in English is straightforward: Invert the order
of the subject and the first auxiliary verb.
It is snowing. = Is it snowing?
Most questions with question words are made in the same way:
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Questions 2
Where is Johnny?
If there is no auxiliary, use part of the verb 'to do'. For example:
However, when we ask for information, we often say 'Do you know?' or 'Could
you tell me.?' These are indirect questions and the word order is different. For
example:
41
The same changes in word order happen when we report questions. Note that in
reported questions, the verb changes to the past:
Questions tags
42
Notice these:
Although, the rules are very simple and mechanical, in order to use them easily
in conversation, they have to be automatic. So you need to hear and practice
them very often.
Reported speech 1
We use reported speech when we are saying what other people say, think or
believe.
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When we are reporting things in the present, future or present perfect we don't
change the tense.
When we tell people what someone has said in the past, we generally make the
tense 'more in the past'.
However, when we are reporting something that was said in the past but is still
true, it is not obligatory to make the tense 'more in the past'. The choice is up to
the speaker. For example:
44
When we are reporting what was said, we sometimes have to change other
words in the sentence.
We have to change the pronoun if we are reporting what someone else said.
Compare these two sentences. In each case the person actually said "I don't
want to go."
We have to change words referring to 'here and now' if we are reporting what
was said in a different place or time.
Compare these two sentences. In each case the person actually said "I'll be
there at ten tomorrow."
Reported speech 2
We also use reported speech when we are saying what other people asked or
wanted to know. We do not use do or question marks in indirect questions.
45
Suppose 1
Notice that 'suppose' is not normally used in the continuous form. We do not
usually say 'I am supposing'.
Notice that for 'imagine not' or 'guess not' that we make 'suppose' negative, not
the other verb.
46
When responding to an idea with 'suppose', you can use 'so' to avoid repeating
the idea that has already been expressed.
'Supposed to be' can also be used to talk about what is arranged, intended or
expected. It is a bit like 'should'.
Often there is a suggestion that the action 'supposed to' happen does not
actually happen
'Not supposed to' often suggest that something is not allowed or prohibited.
47
'Suppose' can also be used as a conjunction to mean 'what if'. Notice that the
verb which follows it is sometimes, but not always, put 'more in the past'.
Suppose 2
'Supposed to be' can also be used to talk about what is arranged, intended or
expected. It is a bit like 'should'.
Often there is a suggestion that the action 'supposed to' happen does not
actually happen
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'Not supposed to' often suggest that something is not allowed or prohibited.
'Suppose' can also be used as a conjunction to mean 'what if'. Notice that the
verb which follows it is sometimes, but not always, put 'more in the past'.
If you 'have something done', you get somebody else to do something for you.
49
We can also use 'have/got something done' in situations where something bad
has happened to people or their possessions. This is not something they wanted
to happen.
Should have
We can use 'should have' to talk about past events that did not happen.
We can also use 'should have' to speculate about events that may or may not
have happened.
We can use ' should not have' to speculate negatively about what may or may
not have happened.
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We can use 'could have' to talk about something somebody was capable of
doing but didn't do.
We can use 'couldn't have' to talk about something we were not capable of
doing.
We can use 'could have' to speculate about what has happened. (We can also
use 'may have' or 'might have' in these situations.)
51
We can also use 'can have' to speculate about what has happened but only in
questions and negative sentences and with words such as 'hardly', 'never' and
'only'.
We can also use 'could have' to speculate about something that didn't happen.
You can also use 'could have' to talk about possible present situations that have
not happened.
Will be doing
We can use 'will be doing' to talk about something that will be in progress at a
particular moment in the future.
52
We can use 'will be doing' to talk about future events that are fixed or decided.
We can use 'will be doing' to ask extremely politely, and with no pressure, about
future plans.
We can use 'will have done' to talk about what will have been achieved by a
certain moment in time.
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If we want to emphasise the continuity of the activity, we can use the continuous
form.
We can also use 'will have done' to predict what we think has already happened
at present.
Present continuous
Mix and match
1 Whos she talking to?
a Hes smoking a cigarette outside.
2 Shall we go for a walk?
b No, no. Sit down.
3 Im looking for my bag.
c I think Ill go to bed.
4 What is she wearing?
d Have you seen it?
5 Is anyone sitting here?
e Oh, thats her brother.
6 Wheres Tom?
f Im just brushing my hair.
7 Ill be ready in a few minutes.
g No, its still raining.
8 Im getting tired.
h I dont know but it doesnt suit her!
Whos she talking to? Oh, thats her brother.
Shall we go for a walk? No, its still raining.
Im looking for my bag. Have you seen it?
What is she wearing? I dont know but it doesnt suit her!
Is anyone sitting here? No, no. Sit down.
Wheres Tom? Hes smoking a cigarette outside.
Ill be ready in a few minutes. Im just brushing my hair.
Im getting tired. I think Ill go to bed.
54
Present simple
Mix and match
1 The Seine flows through
2 British Airways flies to
a 550 destinations.
b meat.
55
3 It takes 10 hours to
4 Cars produce
5 Vegetarians dont eat
6 Pandas come from
7 The US president lives in
8 In Britain, we drive
9 About 20% of Canadians speak
The Seine flows through Paris.
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
French.
the White House.
a lot of pollution.
Paris.
on the left.
fly from London to Miami.
China.
56
During the week I ____________ very hard, so at the weekend, I want to relax. On
Saturday though, I ____________ the housework and ____________ shopping
because I ____________ time the rest of the week. That usually ____________ most
of the day. Saturday evening, I often ____________ or ____________ friends over for
dinner. When friends over, I ____________ cooking although Im not very good at
desserts. As I often ____________ to bed late on Saturday, I ____________ late on
Sunday morning. If the weather is good, I ____________ some time in my garden. If
not, I ____________ the Sunday newspapers. In the afternoon, I ____________ my
mother for tea. She ____________ quite close to me so I usually ____________ to her
house. On Sunday evening I ____________ TV and then go to bed early.
work / do / go / dont have / takes / go out / invite / come / enjoy / go / sleep /
spend / read / visit / lives / walk / watch
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(doesnt
(are you
(doesnt
(know)
Past simple
Complete the sentences with the following verbs
not want / be / have / fly / stay / go / not rain / spend / walk / get
1. Last week we ____________ on holiday. went
2. We ____________ in a lovely hotel by the sea. stayed
3. The weather ____________ very good all week. was
4. It ____________ at all. didnt rain
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Past continuous
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
59
went out.
shouting?
report all night.
two hours.
you all morning.
phone for thirty minutes.
we arrived.
a
b
c
d
e
f
60
groom
They arrive early while I was still sleeping.
Paul cooked dinner while we were having a glass of wine on the terrace.
The doorbell rang while I watch TV.
He wrote six novels when he was living in Spain.
She had a car accident because she was driving too fast.
We took a lot of photos while the bride and groom were standing outside the
church.
61
Who were they speaking to when we arrived? To Sara and Freddie. They are old
friends.
How long did he stay? He only stayed a few moments.
62
10. I ____________ home when I heard the news on the radio. (was driving)
Present perfect
Mix and match
1 Ive lost my purse.
a
2 I dont know what time is it.
b
3 I havent got my keys.
c
4 Its his birthday.
d
5 Its working fine now.
e
6 Hes decided to get fit.
f
7 I know Paris very well.
g
8 Let me get my umbrella.
h
9 Were going to the concert.
i
1 Im sorry, shes not here.
j
0
Ive lost my purse. I cant find it anywhere.
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8. Shes very tired because she (just have) ____________ another baby. (has just
had)
9. The garden looks great now I (cut) ____________ the grass. (ve cut)
10. They (buy) ____________ a house in Spain and will be moving there next
month. (ve bought)
a
b
c
d
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a
b
c
d
e
f
g
65
How long have you been working there? ~ Its my first job so since I left school.
How long have you been living in Oxford? ~ Since I bought my house there in
1998.
How long has she not been talking to you? ~ Since I told her she was stupid!
What have you been doing? You are all dirty. ~ Ive been working in the garden.
Why have you been working so hard? ~ I had a tight deadline to meet on a big
contract.
Has Pete been meeting his targets recently? ~ No, he hasnt for a few months
now.
How long were you waiting for an answer? ~ Not long. They decided quite
quickly.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
there?
has been crying.
him about it.
doing it for years.
I last saw you?
driven this week?
a new dog yet?
keys. I cant find them.
him for hours.
to all this time?
Correct or not
66
(read)
(saved)
a
b
c
d
67
6
7
8
9
Past perfect
Mix and match
68
69
1
j Hes already been invited elsewhere.
0
David couldnt come to dinner yesterday evening. Hes already been invited
elsewhere.
I had already spoken to Jimmy about it before I told you.
When they asked me if Id had a lot of experience in sales, I told them I had.
I hadnt seen him for a long time when I bumped into him on the street.
I thought he had worked there for a long time but hed only just started.
She said she had never done it before but I think she had. She knew what to do.
I hadnt met Sheila before the party. That was the first time I saw her.
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She said they had taken the train. Thats why they were late.
I phoned Kiran about the job shed applied for but she still hadnt heard if shed
got it.
When I saw him yesterday, he told me he had found a new job.
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5. The kids were very hungry when they came in. They ____________ around in the
garden all afternoon. (had been running)
6. She said she ____________ but the room did smell of cigarettes. (hadnt been
smoking)
7. He told me he ____________ but I think he had. (hadnt been seeing)
8. Shes put the weight back on but I think shed lost it because she ____________.
(hadnt been eating)
We had been working on the project for months when it was canceled.
She had red eyes because she had been peeling onions. She hadnt been crying.
I hadnt been walking for very long before someone offered me a lift.
The snow was very deep. It had been snowing all night.
When he asked me that question, I realize I hadnt been paying any attention to
him.
They hadnt been living there very long when they decided to move again.
She was ill because she had been working too hard.
They said they had only been waiting for a few minutes but I think it might have
been longer.
a he found one.
b nothing was ready when we arrived.
c a loud noise woke me up.
d she got the opportunity.
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5
6
7
8
9
i he still made some mistakes.
1
j as a teacher very long.
0
Id only been sleeping for a few minutes when a loud noise woke me up.
Id been training for the marathon for a few months when I hurt my leg and had
to stop.
Shed been driving for nearly twenty years before she has the first accident.
Hed been practicing for ages before the concert but he still made some
mistakes.
Hed only been looking for a job for a couple of days before he found one.
Id been thinking about changing jobs when they offer me this promotion.
Theyd been watching TV instead of making dinner so nothing was ready when
we arrived.
Shed been wanting to do it for years and at last, she got the opportunity.
He asked me if Id been working as a teacher very long.
I told you he hadnt been working very hard and now hes been sacked.
He still hasnt arrived. Ive been waiting for over an hour now.
Ive been working on it all day but it still isnt finished.
Weve been waiting for an answer for weeks but we still havent heard.
Shes a very good driver. Shes been driving for years and never had an
accident.
Whats the matter? Why have you been crying?
What have you been doing recently? Anything interesting?
Hes been learning French for years but hes still not very good.
Ive been thinking about changing jobs but I havent found anything yet.
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2. When we (get) ________ to the theater a lot of people (wait) ________ to buy
tickets so we (decide) ________ to go to the cinema instead. (got / were waiting /
decided)
3. I (shop) ________ in the mall when I (meet) James. He (look for) ________ a
birthday gift for his mother. (was shopping / met / was looking for)
4. The Police (wait) ________ outside my house when I (get) ________ home. They
(laugh) with my neighbours so I (know) ________ it wasnt bad news. (were
waiting / got / were laughing / knew)
5. Sam (have) ________ a car accident the other day. He (go) ________ to work
when he (hit) ________ a truck which (reverse) ________ out of a factory.
Fortunately, he wasnt hurt. (had / was going / hit / was reversing)
6. Sandie (look) ________ very smart when she (go) ________ for her interview. She
(wear) ________ the black suit and pink shirt that she (buy) ________ in London.
(looked / went / was wearing / bought)
a
b
c
d
e
f
75
I ________ in the garden for an hour or so when I ________ the phone ring. It was
Jamie. He ________ down to London on business. I ________ out into the garden
when he ________ so he ________ only________ gone an hour. I ________ he must
have a problem. He ________ early because he ________ to a meeting with some
important clients and ________ to be late. Now he ________ to say he ________ a file
in the study. I ________ to drive into the city with it but I ________ time to get
changed so I ________ in my gardening clothes. Jamie was very embarrassed
when I ________ at his clients in my gardening shoes!
had been working / heard / was driving / had gone / left / had / been / knew / had
left / was going / didnt want / was calling / had forgotten / offered / didnt have /
set off / arrived
a
b
c
d
e
76
a
b
My eyes are really tired. Ive been reading these legal documents all day.
I got my license years ago. Ive been driving since I was 17.
My hair is wet because Ive just been swimming.
I paid the garage $500. Theyve fixed the car.
I still havent finished this book. Ive only read half of it.
Their hands are dirty because theyve been fixing the car.
Im going home. Ive waited long enough.
Im sorry Im late. Have you been waiting long?
77
Going to
Mix and match.
1 Ive bought a guide book.
a
2 Ive have join the gym club.
b
3 Ive bought some nicotine patches.
c
4 Hes really annoying me.
d
5 Ive just bought a bike.
e
6 Mission impossible is on TV tonight.
f
7 My car is dirty.
g
8 Im going to redecorate the sitting room.
h
9 Weve just got engaged.
i
Ive bought a guide book. Now Im going to
78
1
2
3
4
a
b
4
5
d
e
Will future
Complete the sentence
ll wear / ll like / ll have to / ll be / ll have / ll buy / ll be able to / ll have / ll
stop / ll give
79
80
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
Going to or will
Mix and match.
1 Look at the blue sky.
a I think hell be good in that job.
2 He never arrives on time.
b Shes going to think about it.
3 Look at the time
c Hes going to call me back.
4 The price is too high.
d Im going to tell him.
5 Eddie has been made a supervisor.
e Its going to be a beautiful day.
6 Freddy doesnt know.
f Were going to be late.
7 Andrea is off today.
g Theyll never get that much for their house.
8 I called Jerry but he was busy.
h Ill pick you up at seven.
9 Theresa doesnt know whether to accept.
i Hell be late today as well.
1 Great. Im glad youre coming.
j Shell be back tomorrow.
0
Look at the blue sky. Its going to be a beautiful day.
He never arrives on time. Hell be late today as well.
Look at the time. Were going to be late.
The price is too high. Theyll never get that much for their house.
81
Eddie has been made a supervisor. I think hell be good in that job.
Freddy doesnt know. Im going to tell him.
Andrea is off today. Shell be back tomorrow.
I called Jerry but he was busy. Hes going to call me back.
Theresa doesnt know whether to accept. Shes going to think about it.
Great. Im glad youre coming. Ill pick you up at seven.
6
7
8
9
1
0
Id love a cup of tea. Ill make some.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
a
b
c
d
e
82
Im going to go on a diet.
Im having dinner at Gerrys.
Were moving on the 30th.
week.
Hes going to call me back with it.
83
The car needs a service. Will you drop it off at the garage?
That bag looks heavy. Ill take it.
Shall
Complete the questions
have / go / get / come / call / open / pick / go / ask
1. Shall I ________ you up from airport? (pick)
2. Who shall we ________ to lead the team? (ask)
3. Shall we ________ away for the weekend? (go)
4. Shall I ________ you a ticket? (get)
5. What shall we ________ for lunch? (have)
6. Shall I ________ the doctor? (call)
7. Shall we ________ now? (go)
8. Shall I ________ the window? (open)
9. What time shall I ________? (come)
84
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
My
Who shall we ask to lead the team? I think Larry would be a good choice.
Shall we go away for the weekend? Lovely idea. Lets go to Paris.
Shall I get you a ticket? Please, then I will pay you back.
What shall we eat? What about a salad.
Shall I call the doctor? Yes, hes really not very well.
Shall we go now? Yes, Im tired.
Shall I open the window? Yes, its very hot here.
85
The imperative
Complete the sentences
take / go / turn / Go / carry on / ask
Excuse me, can you tell me how to get to Mornington Crescent?
Yes, certainly. ________ straight along this road until you reach the traffic lights. At
the traffic lights, ________ straight across. At the next set of lights, ________ left
and ________ along the High Street until you come to a roundabout. At the
roundabout, ________ the first exit and Mornington Crescent is the second road on
the left. If you have any problems, ________ again. Everybody knows Mornington
Crescent.
Thank you very much, bye. Go / go / turn / carry on / take / ask
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
86
The Passive
Mix and match
1
a by a subcontractor.
87
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
88
We dont know who the winner is. We havent given the results.
He had a hear attack. He was taken to the hospital yesterday.
This room is dirty. It hasnt been cleaned.
Learning
Telling
Swimming
Giving up
Writing
a
b
c
d
e
89
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
90
Can
Mix and match
1 Can I pay by
2 I cant get there before
3 You can take the train
4 He can bring it back when
5 You can go outside for
6 We cant wait any
7 You cant wait
8 I cant get to work without
9 She cant finish it in such a
1 You can get a cup of coffee
0
Can I pay by credit card?
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
a cigarette.
short time.
credit card?
here.
he comes.
in the bar.
ten oclock.
to Oxford.
my car.
longer.
91
a
b
c
d
92
Could
Mix and match
93
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
could
- No, I ________ because she knew you were coming. I suppose I ________ have
said that there was no room in the car because there were already four of us.
couldnt / could
- No, you ________. She knows Ive got a big car with space for six. But you
________ have said we already had tickets for the exhibition and you ________ get
any more.
couldnt / could / couldnt
- I ________ have done that, thats very mean. I had to say yes!
94
couldnt
4
5
6
7
8
9
Im going now.
d
I dont want to go to this party.
e
What are we going to do for the holidays?
f
I dont have enough to buy it.
g
I dont know what to do about Nick.
h
I havent got any shoes to wear with this
i
dress.
Flying is very expensive. ~ Well, we could
May / might
Complete the sentences using these verbs
BE / BUY / DO / GET / GIVE / GO / GO / HAVE / LEAVE / VISIT
1. I ________ some change, if you need it. might have
2. We ________ to Jamaica next year. Our friends will be there. might go
3. I ________ Sue a call and see if she wants to come. might give
4. I ________ it if he had asked nicely but not now. might have done
5. I think he ________ to the football match tonight. might go
6. They ________ it if they can get a good price. might buy
7. I ________ the job, there were lots of good candidates. might not get
8. Sophie ________ next week if she can get a couple of days off work. might visit
9. I dont know where it is. I ________ it at home. might have left
10. I ________ home late. Ive got a lot of work to finish before I can leave. might
be
Should 1
95
Should or shouldnt
1. Im really tired. I ________ go to bed so late. shouldnt
2. I hate my job. I ________ start looking for a new one. should
3. I think you ________ move your car. You ________ park on the double yellow
lines. should / shouldnt
4. She never has any money left. She ________ spend so much. shouldnt
5. This room is a mess! You ________ tidy it up. should
6. I think they are too young. They ________ get married so soon. shouldnt
7. What are those children doing in the street? They ________ be at school. should
8. To have clearer skin, you ________ eat more fruit and vegetables. should
9. Cycling in the city is dangerous, you ________ wear a helmet. should
10. You ________ believe everything he tells you. You cant trust him. shouldnt
96
1
2
3
4
a
b
c
d
Should I book the ticket? ~ Well, if you dont get them now, therell be none left.
You shouldnt drink so much coffee. ~ I dont drink that much. Just two cups a
day.
I think I should go to the gym more regularly. ~ Youre right. Twice a week is
good.
I think you should get a job. ~ Yes, I could work in a bar.
Do you think he should do it? ~ No, he shouldnt. Its very dangerous.
Should 2
Mix and match
1 Its funny you should say that.
2 Its interesting he should be here.
3 Its natural you should be anxious.
4 Its odd he should be nervous.
5 Its strange you should think that
6 Its funny he should take that job.
7 Its strange he should choose her.
8 Its interesting he should call now.
9 Its odd it should stop so suddenly.
Its funny you should say that. I said the
Its interesting he should be here. I didnt think he liked this sort of thing.
Its natural you should be anxious. Any exam is stressful.
Its odd he should be nervous. Hes used to speaking in public.
Its strange you should think that because no one else does.
Its funny he should take that job. I thought he liked to be outdoors.
Its strange he should choose her. Shes not the most qualified.
Its interesting he should call now. He usually calls at the weekend.
97
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
98
Must or Have to
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
5
6
99
Zero conditional
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
100
101
6. Its not woth buying ________ house prices are rising quickly. unless
7. Come with me ________ you have something better to do. unless
8. ________ he asks you again, say no. If
9. ________ you want to get there on time, the best thing is to take a train. If
10. ________ you are reading in a foreign language, dont translate. When
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
If you get a dog, youll have to put it in kennels during your holiday.
102
If you dont finish your studies, youll have wasted a lot of time and money.
If you want to go to university, you must work hard.
If Dave hasnt made dinner yet, Ill make some soup.
If they are not paying more than that, Im not going to take the job.
If youre looking for Andrew, youll find him at the library.
If you havent already been to Paris, you must go.
FIRST CONDITIONAL
It doesnt matter if you dont finish today. You can finish tomorrow,
If he doesnt get here soon. Im going to go without him.
The economy isnt doing very well. If you wad a little white, the price will go
down.
It you want to eat there, you must book a table. They get very busy.
If he fails his exams, his fathers going to be very angry.
Ill make you a sandwich if youre hungry.
If she breaks the contract, shell end up in court.
Theyll buy the house if they can get the money from the bank.
If the weather is good, weII have a picnic.
If you want someone to work on Saturday, I can do it.
Youre going to have a lot of problems if you arent carefull.
Second conditional
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
0
If I
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
103
SECOND CONDITIONAL
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
0
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
1-a / 2-b / 3-e / 4-f / 5-I / 6-d / 7-j / 8-c / 9-g / 10-h
104
Third conditional
105
106
10. If I (not waste) ________ so much time, I would have finished hours ago.
hadnt wasted
Wish
Complete the sentences
you / to remind / you / to be / me / to see / you / to reserve / to make
1. I wish ________ a complaint. to make
2. I wish ________ a table for six. to reserve
3. We wish ________ our customers we will be closed tomorrow. to remind
4. I wish ________ all the best in your new job. you
5. We wish ________ a merry Christmas. you
107
Im overweight.
I never win at tennis.
Its raining hard.
I went to the pub last night.
I didnt go to the cinema.
Ive eaten too much.
Im going to see her later.
I was wearing jeans.
I cant go to the party.
I couldnt do all the questions in the exam.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
108
7. Im not seeing him until Thursday. I wish I ________ him tonight. was seeing
8. He is right as usual. I wish he ________. wasnt
9. She isnt here. I wish she ________. was
10. They wont help me. I wish they ________. would
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
but I am.
but you wont.
but it was so expensive.
but he doesnt.
but I cant.
but you do.
but I do.
but I didnt.
but I did.
but she isnt.
Had better
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
109
0
Wed better go now or well be late.
Youd better take an umbrella. The forecast is for rain.
Wed better get some cash. They dont take checks.
Id better not spend any more money or I wont have any left.
Id better close the window. Its getting cold now.
Id better wait for him. He wont be long.
Wed better book the tickets now. There wont be any left tomorrow.
Youd better tidy up before your mother comes back.
Youd better not throw that out, it may come in useful.
Shed better get started. Otherwise she wont get it finished.
110
Used to
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
a
b
c
d
5
e
6
f
7
g
8
h
9
i
1
j
0
I used to eat a lot of chocolate but now Im
111
2. Shes German so she isnt used to ________ on the left yet. driving
3. They are used to ________ in big houses. living
4. I come from a big family so Im used to ________ with my brothers and sisters.
sharing
5. My father is often away on business so Im used to only ________ my mother at
home. having
6. I havent lived in the country for very long so Im not used to ________ miles to
the nearest shop. driving
7. The children went to boarding school so they are used to ________ away from
home. living
8. He travels a lot for work so he is used to ________. flying
9. As the oldest child, she is used to ________ after other children. looking
10. Im new in this job so Im not used to ________ people what to do. telling
4
5
6
7
8
Everyone used to grow their own fruit and vegetables but now nobody does.
Hes used to driving a big car. Hes always had one.
I have always worked on my own so its difficult getting used to working in a
team.
Andy used to play a lot of football but now he doesnt have time.
Ive changed to the morning shift at work and I just cant get used to getting up
every morning.
She didnt use to drink coffee but now she drinks lots.
112
Weve always lived in the country so we arent used to not having a garden.
There used to be lots of small shops but everyone goes to the supermarket now.
Questions 1
Match the questions and answers
1
2
3
4
a
b
c
d
Have they been sitting there all morning? Yes, since nine oclock.
Did he arrive on time? No, he didnt. Ten minutes late as usual.
Have you seen him today? No, I havent. I dont know where he is.
Does she work with Jim? No, she doesnt. She works at the hospital.
Is Jack coming to dinner tonight? Yes, he is. Hell be here soon.
Will she be back soon? No, I dont think she will be back till tomorrow.
114
Question 2
Complete the questions
if / if / if / where / how much / how often / what time / why / how long / who
1. Do you know ________ the station is? where
2. Can you explain ________ he is so angry? why
3. Would you mind telling me ________ you have been waiting? how long
4. Do you know ________ it is on time? if
5. Could you tell me ________ the film starts? what time
6. Could you tell me ________ he is coming? if
7. Can you tell me ________ is in change? who
8. Could you tell me ________ the dress is? how much
9. Do you know ________ the train runs to London? how often
10. Can you tell me ________ he will be here? if
116
a with friends?
b Spanish?
c do it?
117
d
e
f
g
h
i
is it?
getting there?
you buy?
on Saturday?
it today?
done it yet?
Questions tags
Match the sentences and tags
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
118
wasnt he?
isnt there?
is she?
isnt she?
is there?
isnt he?
is he?
h is it?
i isnt it?
j werent they?
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
119
cant he?
shall we?
hasnt he?
should she?
mustnt he?
can it?
shouldnt we?
8 Lets do that,
9 It must be him,
1 He can do it,
0
You havent got one, have you?
h mustnt it?
i can they?
j have you?
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
120
8
9
He doesnt write very well, does he? No, he doesnt. I dont like his books.
We love it, dont we. Yes, we do. Its great.
It doesnt work, does it? No, it doesnt. It never did.
They dont live in Liverpool, do they? Yes, they do. Theyve been there for years.
She works in sales, doesnt she? Actually she doesnt. Shes in accounts now.
It looks perfect there, doesnt it? Yes, it does. It looks great.
We went there last year, didnt we? No, we didnt. It was the year before.
I dont know him, do I? No, you dont. Hes new to the job.
He didnt say that, did he? Im afraid he did.
121
Reported speech 1
Match the questions and answers
1
2
3
4
5
6
a
b
c
d
e
f
Reported speech 2
Mix and match
1 Where are you?
a She asked me if I lived here.
2 Where were you?
b She asked me where I would be staying.
3 Where do you live?
c She asked me where I had lived.
4 Where is he?
d She wanted to know where I would live.
5 Where will you live?
e She asked me where I lived.
6 Where did you live?
f She wanted to know where I was going.
7 Do you live here?
g She wondered where he was.
8 Where are you going?
h She wanted to know where I was.
9 Where will you be staying?
i She asked me where I had been.
Where are you? ~ She asked me if I lived here.
Where were you? ~ She asked me where I had been.
Where do you live? ~ She asked me where I lived.
Where is he? ~ She wondered where he was.
Where will you live? ~ She wanted to know where I would live.
Where did you live? ~ She asked me where I had lived.
Do you live here? ~ She asked me if I lived here.
Where are you going? ~ She wanted to know where I was going.
Where will you be staying? ~ She asked me where I would be staying.
123
a
.
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
2 He explained why
3 She told me how much
4 She explained how
5 She explained who
6 They told me what
7 He told me how many
8 I told them when
9 She told me what time
1 He told me what size
0
I told him where I lived.
shoes he took.
everyone was.
he was late.
she had spent.
I lived.
it was.
the process worked.
I would get there.
they had done.
people were coming.
Suppose 1
Match the questions and answers
124
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
6
7
8
I dont think hes here yet, is he? ~ No, I dont suppose so. Hes always late.
He doesnt know her, doesnt he? ~ I suppose so. They have both worked here a
long time.
There arent any tickets left, are there? ~ I dont suppose so. They sell out very
quickly.
125
With all the rain, I imagine the river is flooded. ~ Yes, I suppose so. Its been
raining hard.
It must have cost a fortune! ~ I suppose so but they got planty of money.
Are they engaged? ~ I suppose so. Theyve been going out long enough.
He didnt pay for it, did he? ~ I dont suppose so. Hes very mean.
They arent recruiting, are they? ~ No, I dont suppose so with their financial
problems.
Did we get that contract? ~ I suppose so or we would have hear something.
Suppose 2
Mix and match
1
2
3
4
5
6
Hes supposed to be the best actor but I dont think hes very good.
His new movie is supposed to be excellent but I preferred the one before.
Shes supposed to have said that but I think she was misquoted.
They are supposed to be easy to install but they arent really.
London is supposed to be the most expensive city but I think New York is.
Its supposed to be cheap but I think its quite expensive.
He is supposed to have been rude to Mark but I dont believe it.
Whats he supposed to have done? A bungy jump? Never!
It is supposed to be the best restaurant in town but The Tour Rose is better.
126
127