How to use 'used to' and talk future plans naturally

Understanding the nuances of English grammar can be challenging, especially when dealing with expressions of past habits and future arrangements. This article will delve into the use of "used to" for past habits, and the use of present tense forms for future arrangements, providing clarity and examples to aid comprehension.

Using "Used to" for Past Habits

The expression "used to" is a grammatical structure used to describe actions or situations that were habitual in the past but are no longer true. It helps convey a sense of change over time, highlighting how things were different in the past compared to the present.

Forming Sentences with "Used to"

To form sentences with "used to," you typically follow the structure: subject + used to + base form of the verb. For example:

Diane used to travel a lot, but she prefers to stay at home these days.
Liz used to ride a motorbike, but last year she sold it and bought a car.
We used to live in Leeds before moving to London.

Negative and Interrogative Forms

To make negative sentences, you use "didn't use to" or "never used to." For instance:

I didn't use to like ice cream, but now I do.
Jim didn't use to be my best friend, but we became close over time.

For questions, the structure is: Did + subject + use to + base form of the verb? For example:

Did you use to go to the theatre often when you lived in New York?

Changes Over Time: An Example with Karen

Consider Karen, whose lifestyle has significantly changed over the years. Five years ago, she had different habits and preferences compared to today. Here are some examples of how you can use "used to" to describe these changes:

Karen used to play the piano, but she hasn't played for years.
She used to work as a hotel receptionist, but now she works in a bookshop.
Karen never used to drink tea, but now she enjoys it.
She used to go to a lot of parties, but she hasn't been to one for ages.

Present Tenses for Future Arrangements

In English, present tenses can be used to talk about the future, particularly when discussing plans or arrangements that have already been decided. This can be a source of confusion for learners, but understanding the context can help.

Present Continuous for Future Arrangements

The present continuous tense is commonly used to express future plans or arrangements. The structure is: subject + am/is/are + verb-ing. This is typically used when the arrangement is definite and often involves a specific time. For example:

I am meeting Kate for dinner on Friday.
Ben is playing tennis on Monday afternoon.
We are going to the dentist on Tuesday morning.

Present Simple for Scheduled Events

The present simple tense is used for scheduled events, particularly those that are part of a timetable or routine. The structure is: subject + base form of the verb. This is often used with public transport or cinema schedules:

My train leaves at 11:30, so I need to be at the station by 11:15.
The film begins at 8:15 this evening.

Common Mistakes and Clarifications

One common mistake is using "will" for arrangements that have already been planned. Instead, the present continuous should be used:

Incorrect: What will you do this evening?
Correct: What are you doing this evening?

Another area of confusion is the difference between "going to" and the present continuous for future plans. While both can be used, the present continuous often feels more immediate and definite:

I'm going to visit my grandparents next weekend.
I'm visiting my grandparents next weekend.

Exercises and Practice

To solidify your understanding of these concepts, consider the following exercises:

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the sentences with "used to" or "didn't use to" and a suitable verb:

Alex __________ (play) football, but he stopped after his injury.
We __________ (live) near the airport, but now we live in the city center.
__________ you __________ (eat) a lot of sweets when you were a child?

Exercise 2: Future Arrangements

Rephrase the following sentences using the present continuous or present simple:

I will see the dentist on Thursday. → I __________ (see) the dentist on Thursday.
The movie will start at 7 PM. → The movie __________ (start) at 7 PM.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of "used to" and present tenses for future arrangements can greatly enhance your ability to communicate past habits and future plans effectively. By practicing these structures and understanding their contexts, you can convey your messages with clarity and precision. Remember, language is a tool for expression, and the more you practice, the more proficient you become. Whether discussing past habits or future plans, these grammatical tools will serve you well in various conversational scenarios.