[Grammar] Henry had smoked for 10 years when he finally gave it up.

[Son Ho]

Good afternoon, teachers.
Could you please help me to choose the correct sentence? I wonder if we could use both of them.

1. Henry had smoked for 10 years when he finally gave it up.
2. Henry had been smoking for 10 years when he finally gave it up.

 

[jutfrank]

Before we answer, perhaps you could tell us what you already know about the difference in meaning between these two sentences.

What is it that the continuous emphasises that the simple does not?

 

[Tdol]

You can, and you can also say gave up. However, try answering Jutfrank's question.

 

[Son Ho]

What is it that the continuous emphasises that the simple does not?

The continuous emphasises the continuation of an action or that action has just finished with a result.

 

[tedmc]

The continuous emphasises the continuation of an action or that action has just finished with a result.

The action doesn't necessarily have to finish and produce a result. Just that it continued over a period of time.

 

[Tdol]

To be honest, I don't see the point of the continuous form here. Ten years doesn't need emphasis.