Would (2)

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

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SARDORBEK
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Would (2)

Post by SARDORBEK »

While I was studying would in two grammar books, I faced a little oppositeness.
One says: We use would/used to for repeated actions or routines in the past.
(a) We would/used to eat out on Sundays.
(b) - Do you remember Uncle Danny?
- Yes. He would always bring us presents.

While, the other says:
When we use would to talk about a past habit, it is necessary to use a past time
reference
.
Used to can be used with or without a past time reference.
e.g. I used to go a lot. NOT I would go out a lot.

In the sentences above, especially in (b), there is not an obvious past time reference, I think.
Moreover, in the first definition, nothing concerning a past time reference is mentioned.

Dear TEACHER! Can I use the following sentences with would instead of
used to without a past time reference ?

1) I would work in the same department as your sister.
2) He would go for a run everyday.


Many thanks...
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Alan
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Re: Would (2)

Post by Alan »

Yes, if the time reference is understood.
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