Introduction
Understanding time markers and signal words is crucial for mastering English tenses, especially when preparing for the TOEIC Listening & Reading test. These words help you identify the correct tense to use in a sentence, which is essential for both comprehension and communication in a business context.
Explanation
Time markers and signal words are words or phrases that indicate the timing of an action, helping you choose the right tense. Here are some common examples:
Present Simple: "always," "usually," "every day"
Example: "She usually arrives at the office by 9 AM."
Present Continuous: "now," "currently," "at the moment"
Example: "They are currently reviewing the proposal."
Past Simple: "yesterday," "last week," "in 2010"
Example: "The meeting ended at 3 PM yesterday."
Present Perfect: "ever," "never," "since," "for"
Example: "He has worked here since 2015."
Future Simple: "tomorrow," "next week," "soon"
Example: "We will launch the product next month."
Common mistakes
Confusing time markers for different tenses. For example, using "yesterday" with Present Perfect is incorrect. Instead, use it with Past Simple.
Forgetting to match the verb tense with the signal word. For instance, using Present Simple with "now" instead of Present Continuous.
Tips for the TOEIC test
Pay attention to time markers in reading passages and listening sections. They often indicate the correct tense.
In sentence completion questions, look for signal words to help you choose the right verb form.
Practice identifying time markers in business emails or reports, as these often appear in the TOEIC test.
Mini practice
Fill in the blanks with the correct tense of the verb in parentheses:
She ______ (work) here since 2010.
They ______ (have) a meeting yesterday.
We ______ (launch) the new app next week.
Answers:
has worked
had
will launch