(一)表示從過去某時開始一直持續到現在的動作,並且還將持續下去。
The Chinese have been making paper for two thousand years.中國有2000年的造紙歷史。(動作還將繼續下去)
I have been learning English since three years ago.自從三年前以來我一直在學英語。(動作還將繼續下)
(二)表示在說話時刻之前剛剛結束的動作。
We have been waiting for you for half an hour.我們已經等你半個鐘頭了。(動作不再繼續下去)
(三)有些現在完成進行時的`句子等同於現在完成時的句子。
They have been living in this city for ten years. They have lived in this city for ten years. 他們在這個城市已經住了10年了。
I have been working here for five years. I have worked here for five years. 我在這裡已經工作兩年了。
(四)大多數現在完成進行時的句子不等同於現在完成時的句子。
I have been writing a book.(動作還將繼續下去)我一直在寫一本書。 I have written a book.(動作已經完成) 我已經寫了一本書。
They have been building a bridge.他們一直在造一座橋。 They have built a bridge.他們造了一座橋。
(五)表示狀態的動詞不能用於現在完成進行時。
I have known him for years.我認識他已經好幾年了。 * I have been knowing... 這類不能用於現在完成進行時的動詞還有:love愛,like喜歡,hate討厭,等。