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Was vs Were
Difference, Examples & Quiz

What's the difference? Which one is correct?

Was

Definition: The past tense of the verb 'to be' when referring to the first and third person singular.

Usage: It is used to indicate an action or state that occurred in the past for a singular subject.

Example sentences:
  • 1. She was happy yesterday.
  • 2. He was not feeling well last night.
  • 3. Was she at the party?
Were

Definition: The past tense of the verb 'to be' when referring to the second person singular and all plural subjects.

Usage: It is used to indicate an action or state that occurred in the past for multiple subjects or when addressing someone formally.

Example sentences:
  • 1. They were playing in the park.
  • 2. You were right about the answer.
  • 3. Were you at the meeting?

“Was” is the past tense of the verb “to be” when referring to a singular subject, while “were” is used for plural subjects and the singular subject “you” (informal).

Quizzes about "Was" vs "Were"

Was vs Were: 5 Quizzes

1. Which form of the verb 'to be' is used with 'I'?

2. Which form of the verb 'to be' is used with 'you'?

3. Which form of the verb 'to be' is used with 'he'?

4. Which form of the verb 'to be' is used with 'she'?

5. Which form of the verb 'to be' is used with 'we'?

FAQs

  • What is the meaning of 'Was'?

    The past tense of the verb 'to be'.

  • What is the meaning of 'Were'?

    The past tense of the verb 'to be' used with plural subjects.

  • How do you use 'Was' in a sentence?

    Example: He was happy yesterday.

  • How do you use 'Were' in a sentence?

    Example: They were playing in the park.

  • Can 'Was' and 'Were' be used interchangeably?

    No, 'Was' is used with singular subjects and 'Were' is used with plural subjects.