A STUDY OF PRESENT PERFECT USAGE IN AMERICAN AND BRITISH ELECTRONIC NEWSPAPERS =

Abstract

Abstract This bachelor thesis deals with the use of Present Perfect in British and American news. The aim of the investigations is to find out which type(s) of Present Perfect uses is/are the most preferable in English news reports and the possible differences in the use of Present perfect in relation to Past Simple between British and American English. To begin with, a theoretical part summarized various opinions from different linguists toward Present Perfect, and earlier researches by various authors before the main part of the thesis is presented. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were applied in order to answer the two research questions. First, the researcher counted the uses of Present Perfect and classified them into four main uses; then analyzed the frequency of these uses. Specific cases were consulted to illustrate the other issues related to Present Perfect usage including time expressions, verb voice, and the difference in choosing Present Perfect and Past simple for indefinite past actions. Looking at data collected, it is striking that Present Perfect was mostly used for indefinite past actions in event reports, followed by the use for resultative actions. Also, active voice of verbs was also more preferable than the passive voice. Meanwhile, there was a difference in the way British and American English referred to actions started in unspecific time in the past. British reporters tended to use Present Perfect while American preferred Past Simple to indicate indefinite past actions in event reports. Considering the result from research, teachers and students should pay more attention to the most frequent use of Present Perfect when teaching and learning, especially for news report activity.