Would for Past Tense
Learn how to use the modal would for the past tense in English.
Can you answer these grammar questions correctly?
Would for Past Tense
Point 1: Use the modal would to talk about activities you often did in the past but no longer do.
What did you do as a kid on the farm?
✅ I did a lot. I would ride horses.
❌ I wouldn't stay inside.
Where would you play?
✅ I would play in the garden.
❌ I wouldn't see anyone.
Point 2: Use would for things you did often. Use the simple past for actions you just did once.
Who did you talk to as a kid?
✅ I talked with my friends.
✅ We would talk for hours.
❌ I wouldn't say much.
Point 3: We use 'd as a contraction for "would" in spoken English.
When would you get up?
✅ I'd wake up very early.
❌ I'd never sleep in.
Note: Do not use the contraction in short answers.
Would you go to town?
✅ Yes, I would sometimes.
❌ No, I 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 mad.
- I used to have a motorcycle. I would ride it for hours.
