English Language Discussion Forums

victor su · #1 19-Dec-2006, 06:02

I’m sorry I haven’t got any money with me. I_____ (leave)my wallet at home.

Here what should be filled in the blank, left or have left? Thanks.

Mister Micawber · #2 19-Dec-2006, 06:15

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Either is possible; left is more probable, I think.
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victor su · #3 19-Dec-2006, 08:07

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mister Micawber

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Either is possible; left is more probable, I think.
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thank u.

queenbu · #4 19-Dec-2006, 14:51

It sounds more natural to me to say 'I left....' but since the present perfect is used for situations in the past with a result in the present,like 'I have lost my keys' ,meaning 'I don't have my keys NOW?I guess it would be more appropriate to use' I have left my wallet...I'm sorry I don't have any money NOW''.All the grammar rules would indicate the use of the present perfect but as rewboss once told me 'English is not like Mathematics.There are no strict rules in grammar...English is a living thing....not like Mathematics.... GOOD LUCK!

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victor su · #5 19-Dec-2006, 15:47

Quote:

Originally Posted by queenbu

It sounds more natural to me to say 'I left....' but since the present perfect is used for situations in the past with a result in the present,like 'I have lost my keys' ,meaning 'I don't have my keys NOW?I guess it would be more appropriate to use' I have left my wallet...I'm sorry I don't have any money NOW''.All the grammar rules would indicate the use of the present perfect but as rewboss once told me 'English is not like Mathematics.There are no strict rules in grammar...English is a living thing....not like Mathematics.... GOOD LUCK!

[

Thank you.
I totally agree with what you said. This question comes from an English exam. And I really don't like this kind of exam.

queenbu · #6 19-Dec-2006, 16:26

If it was in an English exam,I'm sure they expected the use of the present perfect!-Queenbu