Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[echozuo]

Normally we say "It is the first time we have been here."

Well, my question is, when it is the first time you join a class, and meet new friends, and still have NOT left that place. Why can not say "It is the first time I am here"

[Kristea]

Good question.

In English we would not follow a present tense verb "is" with another present tense verb in this type of complex sentence. "Have been" is used in the dependant clause.

Hope that helps - Kristi
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