Would

English Grammar - Modal Verbs


Would is a modal verb. Would is often used in conditional sentences with a clause beginning with "If..." but it can also be used in the following situations:

WOULD

1. Used as a polite invitation or to offer

When someone asks a question to invite you or offer you something using Would, the response can be: Yes, I would OR No, I wouldn't.

2. Describe a prediction (hypothetical situations)

3. To not sound impolite when disagreeing with someone

4. To describe past habits

(This is similar to using Used to)

5. Future in the past

We use would when we are talking about the past but we want to talk about something which was in the future at that time (in the past).

6. Wouldn't: To describe a past unwillingness (refusal)




Next activity

See our grammar notes about other Modal Verbs.

See our grammar notes about conditional sentences:


If you found this grammar guide about Would in English useful, let others know about it.


Grammar Notes

A variety of English grammar notes and rules including charts and examples for beginner to advanced level students.

Learn Grammar

Grammar Games

Improve your English with our interactive English grammar games. There are many different topics and levels.

Play our Games

Connect with us

Woodward English on Twitter Woodward English on YouTube Woodward English on Instagram