has became or has become

2 min read 10-03-2025

The question of whether to use "has became" or "has become" often arises. The short answer is: "has become" is correct; "has became" is grammatically incorrect. This article will delve into the reasons behind this distinction and offer clear examples to solidify your understanding.

Understanding the Verb "To Become"

The verb "to become" is an irregular verb. This means it doesn't follow the standard pattern of adding "-ed" to form the past participle (e.g., walked, talked). Irregular verbs have unique past and past participle forms.

Present Tense: become
Past Tense: became
Past Participle: become

The past participle is the form used with auxiliary verbs like "has," "have," and "had." Since the past participle of "become" is "become," the correct construction is always "has become," "have become," or "had become."

Why "Has Became" is Incorrect

Using "has became" is a grammatical error because it incorrectly combines the auxiliary verb "has" with the past tense form "became." This violates the rules of verb conjugation. The auxiliary verb requires the past participle, not the simple past tense.

Examples of Correct Usage

Let's illustrate the correct usage of "has become" with some examples:

She has become a successful doctor. This sentence correctly uses "has become" to show a completed action in the present perfect tense.
The weather has become much colder lately. Here, "has become" indicates a change that has occurred and continues to be relevant.
He has become quite proficient in playing the guitar. This sentence uses "has become" to show a development or improvement over time.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The confusion often stems from the similarity in sound between "became" and "become." The best way to avoid this mistake is to memorize the correct past participle form and practice using it in your writing and speaking. Pay close attention to the auxiliary verbs you use. If you're unsure, consult a grammar resource or dictionary.

When to Use the Past Tense "Became"

While "has become" is correct in the present perfect tense, "became" is correctly used in the simple past tense.

She became a doctor last year. This describes a completed action in the past.
The weather became cold overnight. This indicates a change that occurred in the past.

In Conclusion: Master the Correct Form

Remember, "has become" is the grammatically correct form. Understanding the difference between the past tense and past participle of irregular verbs like "become" is crucial for clear and accurate communication. Avoid the incorrect "has became" and confidently use "has become" in your writing and speech. By understanding the nuances of verb conjugation, you'll enhance the precision and professionalism of your communication.