Understanding the difference between “are” and “were” is crucial for mastering American English grammar.
These two verbs are forms of the verb “be,” and while they may seem straightforward, their correct usage can often cause confusion.
This guide aims to clarify when and how to use “are” and “were,” providing practical examples and helpful tips to ensure you use these verbs accurately.
Understanding the Verb “Be”
The verb “be” is one of the most fundamental and versatile verbs in English. It serves as the main linking verb in sentences, connecting the subject with a subject complement. The verb “be” has several forms, which are used in different tenses:
- Present Tense: am, is, are
- Past Tense: was, were
- Future Tense: will be
Each form of “be” is used according to the tense of the sentence and the subject. Let’s dive into how “are” and “were” fit into this structure.
The Present Tense of “Be”: When to Use “Are”
The verb “are” is used in the present tense and serves a few specific functions. It’s used with plural subjects and the second person singular pronoun “you.”
Usage of “Are”
“Are” is used:
- With plural nouns: “The cats are playful.”
- With plural pronouns: “They are excited.”
- With the second person singular pronoun: “You are here.”
Examples of “Are” in Sentences
Here are a few examples to illustrate how “are” is used in different contexts:
- With Plural Nouns:
- “The students are studying for their exams.”
- “The dogs are barking loudly.”
- With Plural Pronouns:
- “We are planning a trip.”
- “They are enjoying the concert.”
- With the Second Person Singular Pronoun:
- “You are always welcome here.”
- “Are you coming to the party?”
Using “Are” with Plural Nouns and Pronouns
When using “are,” it’s important to ensure agreement with the noun or pronoun. Here’s a quick guide:
- Plural Nouns: Always use “are” to match plural nouns.
- Example: “The books are on the table.”
- Plural Pronouns: Use “are” with pronouns like “we,” “they,” and “you” (in its plural form).
- Example: “They are traveling to New York.”
“Are” as an Auxiliary Verb in Progressive Tenses
In addition to being used as a main verb, “are” also functions as an auxiliary verb in progressive (continuous) tenses. This use indicates ongoing action.
Examples in Progressive Tenses:
- “She is studying for her final exams.”
- “They are playing soccer at the park.”
- “You are watching a movie.”
In these examples, “are” helps form the present continuous tense, showing actions that are currently happening.
Exploring the Past Tense: The Correct Use of “Were”
The verb “were” is used in the past tense and serves similar functions as “are,” but for past scenarios.
Usage of “Were”
“Were” is used:
- With plural nouns: “The kids were excited.”
- With plural pronouns: “We were late for the meeting.”
- With the second person singular pronoun: “You were very helpful.”
Examples of “Were” in Sentences
Here are some practical examples of “were”:
- With Plural Nouns:
- “The birds were singing early in the morning.”
- “The students were waiting for the bus.”
- With Plural Pronouns:
- “We were having a great time at the beach.”
- “They were amazed by the performance.”
- With the Second Person Singular Pronoun:
- “You were the best candidate for the job.”
- “Were you at the conference yesterday?”
Customary Grammar Rules for “Were”
In addition to regular past tense use, “were” also appears in hypothetical or subjunctive mood situations. This mood expresses wishes, unreal conditions, or hypothetical scenarios.
Subjunctive Mood Usage:
- Hypothetical Situations: “If I were rich, I would travel the world.”
- Wishes: “I wish she were here.”
Common Mistakes and Confusions Between “Are” and “Were”
Confusions between “are” and “were” often arise due to their similarities and specific usage rules. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:
Mixing up Singular and Plural Forms
A frequent mistake is using “were” with singular subjects or “are” with plural subjects when it’s not correct.
Incorrect: “The dog were barking.”
Correct: “The dog was barking.”
Incorrect: “She are excited.”
Correct: “She is excited.”
Incorrect Use in Different Tenses
Using the wrong verb form for the tense is another common mistake. Remember that “are” is used in the present tense, while “were” is used in the past tense.
Incorrect: “They were going to the store yesterday.”
Correct: “They went to the store yesterday.”
Practical Tips to Remember the Difference Between “Are” and “Were”
To help remember when to use “are” and “were,” consider these practical tips:
Mnemonic Devices
- For “Are”: Think of the present tense as “always happening now,” so “are” fits when describing current actions or states.
- For “Were”: Associate “were” with “what happened before,” reflecting past actions or conditions.
Practice Exercises
- Fill in the Blanks:
- The children ____(are/were) playing outside.
- You ____(are/were) invited to the event yesterday.
- Correct the Mistakes:
- “She are not ready yet.”
- “We was at the concert.”
- Create Sentences:
- Use “are” in a sentence about an ongoing activity.
- Use “were” in a sentence about a past event.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “are” and “were” is essential for clear and correct communication in English. By understanding their roles in the present and past tenses, and practicing with real examples, you can avoid common mistakes and use these verbs with confidence. Remember to apply the tips and exercises provided to reinforce your understanding.
Feel free to practice more, share your experiences, and reach out if you have any questions. Happy writing!
This blog post is designed to be engaging and informative, providing clear explanations and practical advice to help readers master the use of “are” and “were” in American English.