How to use the Past perfect tense

In this English grammar lesson you will learn how we use the past perfect tense in English.

To form the past perfect tense we use:

had + past participle

Examples:

• After talking to John I realised that I had met him before somewhere.
• By the time I got to the party, most people had left.
• I thought I had bought enough food but we ran out.
• He told her he had had enough and ended the relationship.

For unreal events

We can use the past perfect for unreal events.

Examples:

• If I had gone to university I would have a better job.
• I wish you had called earlier.

For unrealised hopes

• I had hoped to go to the concert but I got ill and couldn’t go.
• I had wished to visit Paris but my flight was cancelled.

With time expressions

We can also use the present perfect with the time expressions after, as soon as, before, when.

Examples:

• As soon as I had finished eating I had a nap.
• We left the party after we had spoken to everyone.

Here’s another grammar lesson for you to study.

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