perfect
In grammar, the perfect refers to a verb form that shows an action is completed or finished. It is also used in the phrase 'practice makes perfect' to describe a state of having no mistakes.
Examples
3 of 5Our teacher explained the present perfect in class today.
Our teacher explained the present perfect in class today.
The student successfully identified the past perfect in the text.
The student successfully identified the past perfect in the text.
I'm still having trouble with the perfect, but I'm learning!
I'm still having trouble with the perfect, but I'm learning!
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'Per-Fact': something that is 'Perfect' is a 'Fact' that is completely finished.
Quick Quiz
To talk about an action finished before now, we use the present ____.
Correct!
The correct answer is: perfect
Examples
Our teacher explained the present perfect in class today.
everydayOur teacher explained the present perfect in class today.
The student successfully identified the past perfect in the text.
formalThe student successfully identified the past perfect in the text.
I'm still having trouble with the perfect, but I'm learning!
informalI'm still having trouble with the perfect, but I'm learning!
This research paper analyzes the use of the future perfect in literature.
academicThis research paper analyzes the use of the future perfect in literature.
We aim for the perfect in every product we manufacture.
businessWe aim for the perfect in every product we manufacture.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
practice makes perfect
practice makes perfect
the present perfect
the present perfect
near perfect
near perfect
Often Confused With
Perfection is the general noun for the state of being perfect, while 'perfect' as a noun is mostly used for grammar tenses.
Usage Notes
Use 'perfect' as a noun primarily when talking about grammar tenses (like the Present Perfect) or in the fixed idiom 'practice makes perfect.' In most other cases, the noun form 'perfection' is used.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'perfect' as a noun to mean excellence in general conversation, where they should use 'perfection' instead.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Per-Fact': something that is 'Perfect' is a 'Fact' that is completely finished.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'perfectus', meaning 'finished' or 'complete'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
The phrase 'Practice makes perfect' is a central cultural proverb in English-speaking countries used to encourage persistence.
Quick Quiz
To talk about an action finished before now, we use the present ____.
Correct!
The correct answer is: perfect
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
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