Friday, March 20, 2015

tense - The logic behind present perfect/infinitive + present perfect


May I ask what the logic is behind using present perfect/infinitive + present perfect in "present perfect + since + present perfect" sentences?



it has been a while since I have enjoyed a party this much.



and



It's been a long time since I have read an interesting book.



Why is it not present perfect + past simple? I understand the "it's been" part, since it's something that is still relevant or going on. But if I'm referring to a specific past event, why should present perfect even be considered?



2) Also, I've seen people replace infinitive forms with present perfects:


"You must be surprised to receive a letter from me" = "You must be surprised to have received a letter from me"


Is there such thing as an infinitive present perfect? How is this construction possible?


Please help me understand!




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