Why this sentence must be use 'had'? Is it past tense?

[Kritsada]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #106 "Beginner Grammar Questions Test (1)", question 9

We ......... a wonderful time. Thanks for inviting us over for dinner.

(a) had
(b) have
(c) has

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #106 "Beginner Grammar Questions Test (1)", answer 9

We had a wonderful time. Thanks for inviting us over for dinner.

Correct answer: (a) had

Your answer was: incorrect
We have a wonderful time. Thanks for inviting us over for dinner.
_________________________

Why this sentence must be use 'had'? Is it past tense?

Kritsada

[Conchita]

Yes, that sentence is in the past tense. The guests are thanking their hosts at the end of the party.

[Manal]

Hi,
"Thanks for inviting us OVER dinner" "Thanks for inviting us for dinner"
what is the difference between the sentences,
I want to know the effect of "over" on the meaning.

Thanks

[Yankee]

"Thanks for inviting us OVER dinner" = I'm thanking you for inviting us (to something else) while we are/were eating dinner. (A rather unlikely sentence)

"Thanks for inviting us for dinner" = I'm thanking you because you invited us to have dinner with you.

"Thanks for inviting us over for dinner" = I'm thanking you because you invited us to have dinner with you at your house.
.
_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln