Ch 32 · Lesson 18English · Chapter 32 · Lesson 18 · Grammar primer
I just ate or I've just eaten
With just, already and yet, British English prefers I've just eaten and American English often says I just ate. Both are correct. With yesterday, both say I saw.
The short version
I just ate is fine in American English
.
Why?Hide
With just, already and yet, British English prefers the present perfect: I've just eaten, have you finished yet? American English often uses the past simple: I just ate, did you finish yet? Both are correct. With a finished time like yesterday, both varieties use the past simple.
I just ate or I've just eaten
With , and , British English prefers the present perfect. American English often uses the past simple. Both are correct:
| Word | British | American |
|---|---|---|
. | . | |
. | . | |
? | ? |
Americans use the present perfect here too, and you will hear I just ate in Britain. The table shows which one each side says more. The rules are on the present perfect and for, since, already, yet and still pages.
Going further: Have got or have and the rest of the guide, when you want them. This lesson does not need them.
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