Used to意思

"Used to" is a phrase in English that has several different uses and meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some of the most common uses:

  1. To express a habit or regular action in the past:

    • "I used to play the piano every day when I was a child." (Meaning: I played the piano regularly in the past, but I don't do it anymore.)

  2. To express that something was true or common in the past but is no longer the case:

    • "We used to live in a big city, but now we live in the countryside." (Meaning: We lived in a big city before, but we don't live there anymore.)

  3. To express that something was different in the past:

    • "Computers used to be much bigger and slower than they are now." (Meaning: Computers were different in the past; they were bigger and slower.)

  4. To express a past state or condition:

    • "I used to be really shy, but now I'm much more outgoing." (Meaning: I was shy in the past, but I'm not shy anymore.)

  5. To express a past ability or skill:

    • "I used to be able to speak French fluently, but I've forgotten a lot of it." (Meaning: I could speak French well in the past, but not anymore.)

  6. In questions to ask about past habits or states:

    • "Did you use to smoke?" (Asking if the person smoked regularly in the past.)

  7. In negative sentences to express that something was not the case in the past:

    • "I didn't use to like spicy food, but now I love it." (Meaning: I didn't like spicy food in the past, but I do now.)

It's important to note that "used to" is often contrasted with "would," which can also be used to talk about past habits or regular actions, but without the implication that the action is no longer done. For example:

In summary, "used to" is a versatile phrase that is used to talk about past habits, states, and situations that are no longer true or relevant in the present.