Used To for Past Habits: Talk About How Life Was Different

by | Jul 10, 2025 | Career Development

Understanding how to use the phrase used to is crucial for English learners aiming to describe past habits or states that no longer exist. This grammar point helps articulate actions you consistently did in the past.

What Does ‘Used to’ Mean?

The phrase ‘used to’ is a modal verb phrase commonly used in English to express past habits or conditions. When you say you ‘used to’ do something, it implies that you no longer engage in that activity. By mastering this phrase, you can improve your communication when discussing previous habits or situations.

What's your English level?

Discover your level now: A1/A2/B1/B2/C1/C2 and GET your certificate!

How to Form Sentences with ‘Used to’

To form sentences with used to, follow this structure:

Subject ‘Used to’ Base Verb
I used to play
She used to read
They used to work

Remember, the verb following used to is always in its base form. For example, “I used to watch television,” where ‘watch’ is the base verb.

Negative and Question Forms

Creating negative sentences and questions with used to involves slight alterations:

  • Negative form: ‘did not use to’ or ‘didn’t use to’.
    Example: She didn’t use to like coffee.
  • Question form: ‘Did + subject + use to?’.
    Example: Did you use to live in the city?

Notice that in the negative and question forms, ‘use’ reverts to its post-auxiliary form, dropping the ‘d’.

Common Mistakes with ‘Used to’

Some common mistakes arise when using ‘used to’. Learners often mistakenly use ‘used to’ in present or continuous contexts. Remember, it’s only for past habits. Additionally, confusing ‘used to’ with ‘be used to’, meaning familiar with, can lead to incorrect sentences. To clarify these differences, visit Cambridge Dictionary for comprehensive definitions and examples.

Practical Examples and Practice

Practicing with real-life examples helps solidify your understanding. Here are some sentences:

  • I used to jog every morning, but now I prefer yoga.
  • They didn’t use to own a car before moving to the city.
  • Did you use to go fishing with your grandparents?

Try constructing your own sentences to describe past habits using this structure. To further assess your understanding, you can check your English level using the GET Global English Test.

Conclusion

Mastering the phrase ‘used to’ allows more nuanced conversations about past habits in English. By recognizing its structure, forming sentences, and avoiding common pitfalls, you enhance your linguistic skills significantly. Don’t forget to keep practicing and referring to reliable resources like the Merriam-Webster website for further learning.

Advanced Usage of ‘Used to’

While ‘used to’ primarily denotes past habits, it can also express past states or situations that no longer apply. Consider the following examples:

  • She used to live in London when she was younger.
  • We used to be close friends, but we drifted apart over the years.

By understanding this extended use of ‘used to’, you can add depth and complexity to your English conversations.

Comparing ‘Used to’ and ‘Would’

Another common way to describe past habits in English is through the use of ‘would’. While ‘used to’ and ‘would’ are often interchangeable, there are subtle differences in their usage. ‘Would’ typically implies volition or intention in the past, while ‘used to’ is more habitual.

For example, ‘I used to walk to school every day’ suggests a routine action, while ‘I would walk to school to clear my mind’ implies a specific purpose or intention.

Clarifying Confusions with ‘Used to’

It’s common for English learners to confuse ‘used to’ with ‘be used to’. Remember, ‘be used to’ refers to being accustomed to something or someone. Consider the following:

  • ‘I used to the rainy weather.’ (Incorrect) – Incorrect usage of ‘used to’.
  • ‘I am used to the rainy weather.’ (Correct) – Indicates being accustomed to the rainy weather.

By distinguishing between these two phrases, you can ensure correct grammar usage in various contexts.

FAQs

Here are some common questions related to using ‘used to’ in English:

  1. Can ‘Used to’ Be Used in Present Tense?

    No, ‘used to’ is specifically for describing past habits or conditions that no longer apply. For present situations, use appropriate present tense forms.

  2. Is ‘Used to’ the Same as ‘Would’?

    While both can describe past habits, ‘used to’ emphasizes regularity, while ‘would’ implies intention or volition in the past.

Case Study: Applying ‘Used to’ in Writing

In an essay about childhood memories, the author consistently uses ‘used to’ to evoke nostalgia and convey the regularity of past experiences. This application of ‘used to’ helps the readers vividly imagine the author’s upbringing.

Statistics on ‘Used to’ Usage

According to linguistic studies, ‘used to’ is one of the most common phrases utilized in English to describe past habits. Its frequency in everyday conversations highlights its importance in English grammar.

Enhance Your Skills with ‘Used to’

Practicing ‘used to’ in various contexts can significantly enhance your English proficiency. Whether in writing, speaking, or comprehension, mastering this grammar point adds depth and accuracy to your language skills.

Test your English level and get your certificate!

Find out your English level

Takes only ~20 minutes 🎉