Would for Past Tense

Learn how to use the modal would for the past tense in English.

Special Lesson Activities for This Grammar Point

Would - Past Tense

Point 1: Use the modal would to talk about activites you often did in the past, but no longer do.

(Q) As a kid on the farm, what did you do?
(A) I did a lot. I would ride horses.
(N) I wouldn't stay inside.

(Q) Where would you play?
(A) I would play in the garden.
(N) I wouldn't see anyone.

Point 2: Use would to for things you did often. Use the simple past for actions you just did once.

(Q) Who did you talk to as a kid?
(A) I talked with my friends.
(A) We would talk for hours.
(N) I wouldn't say much.

Point 3: We use 'd as a contraction for would in spoken English.

(Q) When would you get up?
(A) I'd wake up very early.
(N) I'd never sleep in.

Note: Do not use the contraction in short answers.

(Q) Would you go to town?
(A) Yes, I would sometimes.
(N) No, wouldn't usually.

Point 4: We use used to to introduce an action we no longer do, and then switch to would for related actions.

I used to play soccer a lot. I would play from morning till night.
I used to get in trouble a lot. I would make my teacher so made.
I used to have a motorcycle. I would ride it for hours.

Answer the following questions about the interview.

About the Teacher

My name is Todd Beuckens and I am an ESL teacher in Thailand. I created this site to provide teachers and students free audio lessons and learning materials not usually found in commercial textbooks.

Contact me here.