student asking question

Would it sound awkward if I say "had ever met" instead of "have ever met?" If so, could you tell me why?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

It would sound a little odd, yes! That's because "had" is the past-tense form, whereas "have" is the present-tense form. So if it were "had," it would sound like the person is no longer the best salesperson they've met. "Have" means that he still is the best salesperson. Ex: She had been a good friend until she lied to me. Ex: She has always been a good friend to me. Ex: This is the best cake I have ever eaten.

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