[Grammar] Had read vs Read

[anupumh]

Hi,

Which is more appropriate and why?

I had read in a book that there are only two real tenses in English.

I read in a book that there are only two real tenses in English.

Out the above two sentences, which one has a better tense usage?

Thanks

[The French]

Hello,

I am a learner, and I prefer the second sentence but I believe the frst one is correct too.

I think 'read in a book', is more natural and logical.

I wait the opinion about the English teachers.

bye.

[anupumh]

Originally Posted by The French

Hello,

I am a learner, and I prefer the second sentence but I believe the frst one is correct too.

I think 'read in a book', is more natural and logical.

I wait the opinion about the English teachers.

bye.

"read in a book" is simple past tense
"had read in a book" is past perfect

[The French]

Hello,

I understand the both tense, but I still prefer the second one. For me the verb 'read' is one action, and I believe you have read one time in the past and the action isn't still in progress.

Maybe the best thing is to know the context. If you want to show us a connection between the past and the present, the present perfect tense is required but if in your mind your action do not have a consequence in present time the past simple is better, do you follow me?

See you later.