The Past Continuous

The Past Continuous

• Actions in progress in the past

We use the past continuous to talk about an action which was in progress in the past at a specified time.

We often use all to emphasize continuity: all night, all day, al evening, etc.

We were watching movies all night.

I was working all day.

She was living in Paris in 1998.

2. Actions happening at the same time

We use the past continuous to express that two or more actions were in progress at the same time.

We often use while.

While Peter was playing on the computer, Julie was reading a book.

Jack was jogging and Peter was weightlifting.

I was writing emails while the cake was baking in the oven.

3. Actions interrupted by another action

We use the past continuous to express that an action in progress was interrupted by another action. We use the past simple for the action which interrupts.

We often use the following words: when, as, just as, while.

We were having dinner when the phone rang.

While I was walking home, I met Fred.

Just as she was leaving the office, the boss turned up.

4. Repeated past actions

We use the past continuous to talk about repeated past actions. We often use always, all the time, constantly and continually to express criticism.

When she was young, she was always playing music at night.

He was talking all the time.

Jack was always wearing a scarf.

5. Unfulfilled plans

We use the past continuous to talk about unfulfilled plans.

We use: plan, hope, want, intend, to be going to, etc.

I was hoping to meet my friends at the weekend but they were too busy.

She was planning to go on holiday but she didn’t have money.

Peter was wanting to phone his mum but he didn’t have time.

6. Polite questions

We can use the past continuous for polite questions.

I was wondering if you could help me.

I was thinking that you might be able to help me.

I was hoping you could do something for me.

7. Background information

We can use the past continuous to give background information.

It was getting dark and she was preparing dinner.

We were walking in town when the sun was setting.

Peter was going home and the sun was shining.