How to use "have" and "had" in English

In English, “have” and “had” are two common words that are often used in sentences. However, many people are confused about when to use “have” and when to use “had.” In this article, we will explain the differences between “have” and “had” and provide examples of how to use them correctly.

How to use “have”

“Have” is a verb that is used to indicate possession, ownership, or the relationship between the subject and an object. It is also used to form the present perfect tense and the past perfect tense.

Present tense

I have a car.
She has a dog.
We have a meeting tomorrow.

Present perfect tense

I have finished my homework.
She has already eaten lunch.

Past perfect tense

I had already left when you called.
She had already gone to bed when I arrived.

How to use “had”

“Had” is the past tense of “have.” It is used to indicate possession, ownership, or the relationship between the subject and an object in the past.

Past tense

I had a car when I was in college.
She had a dog when she was a child.

Past perfect tense

I had finished my homework before dinner.
She had already eaten lunch when I arrived.

Conclusion

In summary, “have” is used in the present tense and present perfect tense, while “had” is used in the past tense and past perfect tense. By understanding the differences between “have” and “had,” you can use them correctly in your sentences and communicate more effectively in English.

## References

- [Cambridge Dictionary - Have](https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/have)
- [Cambridge Dictionary - Had](https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/have)
- [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/eb/qa/have-or-had)