Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Yukineko]

Hello teachers. Could you help me with the following question?

He admitted not doing his best.

Which meaning is this #1 or #2?

#1 He admitted that he didn't do his best.
#2 He admitted that he hadn't done his best.

Also, is it possible to say, "He admitted not having done his best"?

I am a little confused....

Thanks in advance.

Yukineko

[Oll Korrect]

I would say either could be correct. Does the context provide clues?

If the action he was admitting to happened before he admitted, then past perfect. If the action happened at the same time that he admitted, then past simple.

Your version is about the same as past perfect. I think it would probably look a little bit more complicated, but it's an excellent tense.

Btw, I would say "admitted to," but that might just the the American in me talking-- see if other people disagree.

[Yukineko]

Dear Oll Korrect

Thank you for answering my question.
Now I understand it depends on the situation.

Thank you very much!

Yukineko.