This is the first time...

[Metamorfose]

Hello again, I was quite long away from this forum.

The other day I was discussing with a fellow teacher about what follows after It's the first, second, third, last time....

I read (Murphy) that one have to use a perfect form It's the first time I've visted Paris and not *It's the first time I visit Paris. I was also told that the durative can also be used It's the first time I am visiting Paris.

In the end, it doesn't matter what verbal aspect one uses or does one have to respect that?

José

[oceanbreeze]

I suppose this is where sociolinguistics comes in

[lolwhites]

Students are probably safest sticking to Murphy's Law if they want to be certain that what they say will be widely accepted. I wouldn't rule the others out buteven though I don't think I say them myself. A lot will depend on where the speaker comes from.

[Metamorfose]

Got the idea, thanks

José