Simple Past of Be
Looking for the Simple Past of "Be"? On this page you will find the complete simple past conjugation of "be" across all subject pronouns, with example sentences and notes on usage. Use the search form to look up a different verb or tense.
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Conjugation Table
| Subject | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| I | was/were |
| you | was/were |
| he/she/it | was/were |
| we | was/were |
| they | was/were |
Example Sentences
- I was/were every day. This shows regular habit or routine.
- She was/were often. Third person singular form in action.
- We was/were together. Plural first person perspective.
- They was/were right now. Shows action with multiple subjects.
- You was/were tomorrow. Addresses the listener or second person.
When to Use the Simple Past of "be"
Used for completed actions at a specific time in the past.
Form: regular verbs add -ed (worked); irregular verbs change form (went, took, saw). Always pair with a definite past time when one is implied.
Read the full rule, structure, time markers, and common mistakes on the simple past grammar page. The table above shows you the specific forms of "be" — the grammar page explains the tense itself for any verb.
Common Mistakes with the Simple Past
-
Wrong: I goed to the store.
Correct: I went to the store.
"Go" is irregular: past simple is "went". -
Wrong: She didn't went home.
Correct: She didn't go home.
After "did/didn't" use the BASE verb — never the past form.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is "be" a regular or irregular verb?
- "Be" is an irregular verb. It does not follow standard conjugation rules.
- How do I use the simple past tense?
- Use this tense to express specific time frames and aspects of the verb's action.
- What other verbs are similar?
- Explore the conjugator to find similar verbs and compare their forms.
Practice Your Skills
Ready to test your knowledge? Use our interactive conjugator tool to practice all English tenses and improve your fluency.
Go to Interactive Conjugator Tool