Which one is correct?
"I must confess that I have had" or "I must confess that I've done something"?

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I must confess that I have had

This phrase is correct and commonly used when admitting to having experienced something in the past.

This phrase is used when confessing to having had a particular experience in the past. It implies acknowledging that experience.

Examples:

  • I must confess that I have had a difficult childhood.
  • I must confess that I have had my fair share of challenges.
  • I must confess that I have had the opportunity to travel extensively.
  • I must confess that I have had a great deal of success in my career.
  • I must confess that I have had a wonderful life so far.

I must confess that I've done something

This phrase is correct and commonly used when admitting to a specific action in the past.

This phrase is used when confessing to a particular action that has been done in the past. It implies taking responsibility for that action.

Examples:

  • I must confess that I've done something terrible.
  • I must confess that I've done my fair share of mistakes.
  • I must confess that I've done all I could to help.
  • I must confess that I've done nothing wrong.
  • I must confess that I've done everything in my power to fix it.
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. The first phrase 'I must confess that I've done something' is used when admitting to a specific action in the past, while the second phrase 'I must confess that I have had' is used when admitting to having experienced something in the past. The choice between 'done something' and 'have had' depends on the context of what is being confessed.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

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