Past Simple and Past Continuous

Past Simple (Subject + V₂ + object)

• We usually use the past simple to refer to events or states in the past, or to repeated past actions.
  • He had many responsibilities.
  • I went to the cinema three times last week.

Past Continuous (Subject + was/were + V₄ + object)

• We use the past continuous to refer to events which were unfinished or in progress at or around a definite time in the past.
  • At 7 o’ clock this morning I was having a shower.
• We often use the past continuous to refer to background activities or situations in a story.
  • He looked through the window. Rain was falling steadily on the city’s streets.
• We sometimes use the past continuous with words like always, constantly and forever to refer to repeated past actions if we want to emphasize or criticize.
  • When my dad worked in a bakery he was always bringing home cakes and biscuits.
  • My old neighbours were forever having parties and playing loud music.
• We sometimes use the past continuous instead of the present continuous with hope, plan, think about (+ -ing), and wonder about (+ ing) to show uncertainty.
  • Sarita and I were hoping to meet up this afternoon. If we do, would you like to come too? (less definite than We’re hoping to …)
• We can use the past continuous with wonder to make very polite suggestions and requests.
  • I was wondering if you could help me.

Past Simple or Past Continuous

• We use the past simple to refer to events which happened during a longer activity, which is shown by the past continuous.
  • Musicians sang and threw flowers to people who were watching.
• We sometimes use the past simple or the past continuous with verbs like hope, mean, plan, think about (+ -ing) and want to refer to things we intended to do but didn’t or can’t.
  • I hoped/was hoping to get there on time but the traffic is really heavy, so I’m going to be late.
• The past simple is much more common than the past continuous when we refer to the past, and it is the best form to use if you are not sure.

Source: Active Grammar, Level 3, Mark Lloyd and Jeremy Day, CUP, 2011 (With Ramrowriter’s adaptation where necessary)