Lesson 1 of 3
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Past Continuous – When do we use it?
- We use it to talk about an action that was in progress at a stated time in the past. (B1)
- I was skiing yesterday morning.
- What were you doing yesterday at 7 o’clock?
- We use it to describe an action in the past interrupted by another action expressed by past simple (B1) (longer action – past continuous, shorter action – past simple).
- I was having a bath when the phone rang.
- I was getting dressed when the taxi arrived.
- We use it to talk about two or more simultaneous actions (actions happening at the same time). (B1)
- He was working in the garden while his wife was reading the book.
- I was sitting on the beach while the children were swimming.
- We use it to describe a background scene, the atmosphere (action and events) when we are telling a story in contrast to the past simple for an action. (B2)
- I was standing outside the restaurant.
- I was waiting for my friend. It was raining and I was feeling tired.
- Suddenly a young man appeared and grabbed my handbag…..
- Â We use it to express a change of mind or events that did not happen, we intended to do something but it did not happen. (B2)
- I was going to bring you a book but I forgot.
- He was considering a new job, but he hasn’t decided yet.
- I was about to do it, but then I forgot.
- We use it to make a very polite request, usually with wonder. (B2)
- I was wondering if you could lend me your car tomorrow.
- I was wondering if you could help me with my homework.
Time expressions we use with the past continuous:
when, while, as, all day morning, all night
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