Americanii nu prea se mai leaga la cap cu present perfect si folosesc mai putin pretentiosul trecut simplu. Americanii spun: „We had a great time”, si nu „We’ve had a great time”; „Did you bring the book?”, si nu „Have you brought the book?”; „Did you see my glasses?”, si nu „Have you seen my glasses?”.

(Speak American, A Survival Guide to the Language and Culture of the U.S.A., Random House)