have used the computer vs have been using the computer

Both "have used the computer" and "have been using the computer" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Have used the computer" is used to refer to a completed action in the past, while "have been using the computer" is used to indicate a continuous action that started in the past and is still ongoing.

Last updated: March 19, 2024 • 1313 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a completed action in the past.

"have used the computer"

This phrase is used to talk about a specific action that was completed in the past. It does not imply that the action is still ongoing.

Examples:

I have used the computer to finish my assignment.
She has used the computer to create a presentation.
They have used the computer to play games.
He has used the computer to write emails.
We have used the computer to watch movies.

Show examples from the web [+]

... computer viruses; Unauthorized access to local and remote-computer systems; Software installation or intentional changes to software configuration on any library computer; Attempts to determine how other patrons have used the computer.
The computer will allow you to stay on as long as nobody is waiting for the computer, asking you if you'd like to continue using the computer every 30 minutes. If at anytime there is a waiting list and you have used the computer for at least one ...
Both have used the computer to store, analyze, and act upon student results, and both have used such sophisticated peripheral devices as audio or graphics to maintain student involvement and enrich the nature of the tutoring. The time period ...
Several artists have used the computer to create synthetic environments for artificial creatures that behave according to the laws of nature (13.28). William Latham's The Evolution of Form (1990) programs what the artist calls “computer ...

Alternatives:

used the computer
have utilized the computer
have operated the computer
have employed the computer
have worked on the computer

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate a continuous action that started in the past and is still ongoing.

"have been using the computer"

This phrase is used to talk about an action that started in the past and is still happening. It implies a continuous or repeated action.

Examples:

I have been using the computer for hours.
She has been using the computer to study for her exams.
They have been using the computer to work on their project.
He has been using the computer to learn programming.
We have been using the computer to design a website.

Show examples from the web [+]

"Thank you for your dedication and commitment to provide wonderful opportunity for the blind and visually impaired. I have been using the computer that I received a little more than a year ago almost daily. My computer is my right hand in life.
If you got kids at home and they have been using the computer while you are out on work, would you like to know, just to be on the safe side, what sites have been recently visited from your computer and want to see the history on your ...
Library staff may ask patrons who have been using the computer for more than one-half hour to relinquish the machine. 5. Patrons must read and sign a written agreement and abide by the Meade Public Library Computer Use Policy. 6.
EyeLoveU is a smart one-of-a-kind eye-care program, based on accurately monitoring your mouse and keyboard action, to determine how long you have been using the computer. Therefore, EyeLoveU is the most useful tool for every ...

Alternatives:

have been utilizing the computer
have been operating the computer
have been employing the computer
have been working on the computer
have been engaging with the computer

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have used the computer vs have been using the computer