The Use of Verb Third Form vs. Continuous Form in Past Tense

Understanding the correct usage of verb forms in the past tense is crucial for clear and accurate communication. This guide will explore the differences between the simple past (made) and the past continuous (was making) forms and clarify when each should be used.

Differences Between Simple Past and Past Continuous Tenses

When discussing verb forms in the past tense, two common forms are the simple past and the past continuous. Each of these tenses serves a unique purpose and is used in different situations.

Tense: The simple past tense is used to describe a single completed action in the past. An example of the simple past is:

He came here yesterday.

The past continuous tense, on the other hand, is used to describe an ongoing action at a specific point in the past. An example of the past continuous is:

When I reached his house, he was watching a TV program.

Key Differences

Tense: The simple past emphasizes a completed action. For example: He stopped fighting, she heard a voice, we sent messages. The past continuous, however, indicates an action that was in progress at a certain time in the past. For example: She was teaching a point when the bell rang, they were discussing about him when he contacted his parents.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

You cannot use the third form (past participle) of a verb instead of a continuous form. This would lead to a change in meaning and is not grammatically correct. For instance, you would not say 'He was made to stop fighting' instead of 'He was made to stop, where 'made' is the past participle and 'was made' is the continuous form. The same applies to other verbs.

Examples for Clarity

1. Simple Past Tense:

She sang a song yesterday.

2. Past Continuous Tense:

When she entered the room, he was reading a book.

Final Thoughts

When using verb forms in the past tense, it's essential to choose the appropriate form to convey your intended meaning. The simple past and past continuous tenses serve distinct purposes and should be used accordingly to ensure clarity and accuracy in your writing and speech.

Remember, using the wrong form can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Always choose the form that best fits the context and the intended meaning of your sentence.