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Talking About the Very Recent Past in English
Have you ever wanted to express something that happened just a moment ago? In English, we have some handy expressions to describe these recent actions. This lesson will focus on using 'just,' 'just about,' and 'just' with the present progressive tense. Let's dive in and learn how to talk about the very recent past with confidence.
Using 'Just'
The word 'just' is a versatile adverb that often signifies a very recent event. It's like saying, 'a moment ago' or 'very recently.' Here's how we use it:
**Structure:**
Subject + **have/has** + **just** + **verb (past participle)**
**Example:**
I **have just** finished my homework.
She **has just** arrived at the party.
**Note:** We use 'have' with the first-person singular (I), second-person singular (you), first-person plural (we), and third-person plural (they). We use 'has' with the third-person singular (he, she, it).
Combining 'Just' with the Present Progressive Tense
The present progressive tense, also known as the continuous tense, describes actions happening right now. We can combine 'just' with this tense to emphasize that the action has just finished, and the effect is still ongoing.
**Structure:**
Subject + **am/is/are** + **just** + **verb (present participle)**
**Example:**
I **am just** leaving for work. (The speaker is still in the process of leaving)
She **is just** finishing her meal. (She has almost finished but is still eating)
They **are just** getting ready for the concert. (They are still preparing)
Using 'Just About'
'Just about' is similar to 'just' but implies that the action is almost complete. It's like saying, 'almost finished' or 'nearly done.'
**Structure:**
Subject + **have/has** + **just about** + **verb (past participle)**
**Example:**
I **have just about** finished my project. (The project is almost finished)
She **has just about** finished her presentation. (Her presentation is nearly complete)
Practice Time
Let's practice using these expressions!
- What **have you just** done?
- Where **are you just** going?
- What **have you just about** finished?
Try to use these expressions in your daily conversations. It's a great way to sound more natural and improve your fluency. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Summary
We've explored how to talk about the very recent past in English using 'just,' 'just about,' and 'just' with the present progressive tense. These expressions add nuance and precision to our language, allowing us to communicate more effectively. Keep practicing, and you'll be speaking like a native in no time!