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the tenses of "sneeze" and "have a headache&q

 
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www0935



Joined: 14 Apr 2008
Posts: 173
PostPosted: Tue Apr 28, 2009 11:56 pm    Post subject: the tenses of "sneeze" and "have a headache&q Reply with quote
Please help me with the following sentences.

Which of the following is correct?

1. Today I am not only sneeze but also have a headache.
2. Today I am not only sneezing but also having a headache.
3. Today I am not only sneezing but also have a headache.

Many thanks.
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dragn



Joined: 17 Feb 2009
Posts: 450
PostPosted: Wed Apr 29, 2009 2:07 am    Post subject: Reply with quote
Quote:
Which of the following is correct?

1. Today I am not only sneeze but also have a headache.
2. Today I am not only sneezing but also having a headache.
3. Today I am not only sneezing but also have a headache.


Number 3. Today I am not only sneezing but also have a headache is correct. We don't normally use the continuous aspect with most physical ailments. In other words, you're not having a headache; you have a headache. Sneezing, on the other hand, is thought of more as an action than a condition, and we routinely use the continuous aspect for that...unless, of course, it's just one isolated sneeze. Then use a simple verb tense. (Look out, I'm about to sneeze!...Ooh, I just sneezed, etc.)

Greg
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