English grammar can often be confusing for non-native English speaker, especially when it comes to verb usage. One such challenge is knowing when to use “has” vs “have.” These two verbs may seem simple, but their correct application is essential for constructing grammatically sound sentences. In this blog post, we’ll break down the differences between “has” and “have and provide guidance on how to use have and has correctly. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to use these verbs in different contexts.
What Is the Difference Between “Has” and “Have”?
Both “has” and “have” are forms of the verb “to have,” which means to possess, hold, or own something. They are also used to form perfect tenses, which express actions that have been completed. The primary difference between “has” and “have” lies in the subject of the sentence—whether it is singular or plural.
- Has is used with third-person singular subjects.
- Have is used with first- and second-person subjects, as well as plural subjects.
When to Use “Have”
Let’s begin by examining when to use have. The verb “have” is used in the following contexts:
1. First-Person Singular and Plural
“Have” is used with first-person subjects, whether singular (I) or plural (we).
Examples:
- I have completed my assignment.
- We have a meeting scheduled for tomorrow.
In both examples, “have” follows the first-person subjects (I and we).
2. Second-Person Singular and Plural
“Have” is also used with second-person subjects, whether singular (you) or plural (you, referring to a group).
Examples:
- You have done an excellent job on the project.
- You all have been working hard this semester.
3. Third-Person Plural
“Have” is used with third-person plural subjects, such as they or the names of multiple people or things.
Examples:
- They have agreed to the new terms.
- The students have finished their exams.
In each of these cases, “have” is used because the subject is either plural or first/second-person.
When to Use “Has”
Now, let’s move on to when to use has. “Has” is used specifically for third-person singular subjects, such as he, she, it, or singular nouns.
1. Third-Person Singular Subjects
“Has” follows third-person singular subjects, including pronouns like he, she, and it, as well as singular nouns.
Examples:
- He has a passion for philosophy.
- She has a new car.
- It has been raining all day.
2. With Singular Nouns
When referring to a singular noun (a single person, place, or thing), “has” is the correct choice.
Examples:
- The dog has a collar.
- The company has implemented new policies.
In both cases, “has” is used because the subject is singular.
How to Use Have and Has in Perfect Tenses
One of the most common uses of “have” and “has” is in the formation of perfect tenses. Perfect tenses are used to express actions that have been completed at some point in the past but may have relevance to the present or future. The most common perfect tenses are the present perfect and the past perfect.
1. Present Perfect Tense
The present perfect tense is used to express actions that began in the past and are either still continuing or have a connection to the present. To form the present perfect tense, you combine “have” or “has” with the past participle of the verb.
- I have finished my assignment. (first-person singular)
- She has completed the project. (third-person singular)
In both examples, “have” and “has” are used to form the present perfect tense, with the past participle of the verbs “finish” and “complete.”
2. Past Perfect Tense
The past perfect tense is used to describe actions that were completed before another action in the past. To form the past perfect, use “had” followed by the past participle of the verb.
- I had eaten before they arrived.
- She had completed her essay before the deadline.
While this tense requires “had” instead of “has” or “have,” understanding the use of perfect tenses helps clarify how to use “have” and “has” in other situations.
Common Mistakes with “Has” and “Have”
It’s easy to mix up when to use have and when to use has. Below are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using “has” with plural subjects:
Incorrect: The students has finished their work.
Correct: The students have finished their work.
Using “have” with third-person singular subjects:
Incorrect: He have a great idea.
Correct: He has a great idea.
More Examples of “Have” and “Has” in Sentences
Here are some more examples of how to use have and has in various sentences:
- I have already submitted my essay.
- She has a strong work ethic.
- We have been working on this project for weeks.
- He has an impressive academic background.
- They have decided to change their approach.
In each example, the subject determines whether “have” or “has” is used.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a student drafting an essay or a professional writing an important report, getting these basic grammatical rules right is essential. Remember, “has” is for third-person singular subjects, and “have” is used for first- and second-person subjects as well as third-person plural. By paying attention to the subject of your sentence, you can avoid common mistakes. However, if you need quick help polishing your documents, whether it’s a university assignment or a business report, you can count on our affordable proofreading services. We offer fast, reliable assistance to ensure your work is error-free and professionally presented. Get a bespoke quote now!
