It is years since+past tense or present perfect?

[spenser]

Dear Sir,

I have four sentences in mind:

1. It is years since I swam.
2. It is years since I have swum.
3. It has been years since I swam.
4. It has been years since I have swum.

I feel, sentences 1, 2, 3 are correct. I would, however, say only sentence 2. Could someone tell me whether I am right?

 

[Tarheel]

Number 3 is right if you word it something like:

It has been years since I swam in the ocean.
​

Otherwise, only #4 is correct.

 

[MikeNewYork]

In informal English, I have no problem with "It is years since...".

 

[bhaisahab]

In informal English, I have no problem with "It is years since...".

Nor do I.

 

[Rover_KE]

I prefer 'It's (been) years since I swam'.

***

spenser, please note that 'Dear Sir' is an inappropriate salutation here. There are female members who can answer your questions.

In fact, no salutation is necessary at all. Just go ahead and ask your question.

 

[spenser]

Thank you very much, everyone, for answering my question. I appreciate it. And, Rover, thank you for the advice too.