Question
Is the phrase had been skipping imperfective, or perfective aspect
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The phrase "had been skipping" is in the past perfect continuous (or perfect progressive) aspect. This aspect combines the perfect aspect (indicated by "had") with the continuous (or imperfective) aspect (indicated by "been skipping").
So, while the overall action is in the perfect mood (indicating a completed action relative to another past action), the use of "been skipping" implies ongoing or repeated action, which characterizes the imperfective aspect. In summary, "had been skipping" reflects a perfective aspect within the context of an ongoing action.
So, while the overall action is in the perfect mood (indicating a completed action relative to another past action), the use of "been skipping" implies ongoing or repeated action, which characterizes the imperfective aspect. In summary, "had been skipping" reflects a perfective aspect within the context of an ongoing action.