A confusing point for both native and foreign English speakers is whether to use used to or use to in a phrase.
Used to is used to describe an action that was common or ongoing previously but no longer occurring.
Ex. This building used to be a hospital but has been converted into a school.
As a general rule, since the action described is in the past, it is correct to use the past-tense “used to”.
Ex. I used to like dogs, but I got bit by one last month and now they scare me.
The only circumstance you could correctly say “use to” is in combination with the word “did”, since “did” is already in past-tense, “use to” is the proper way to follow it.
Ex. I did use to like dogs, but I got bit by one last month and now they scare me.
This is an informal way of speaking and is not as commonly used.
It can also be used as an adjective when preceded by “to be”, that means to have become accustomed to something. If it is used as an adjective, it will always be written in past tense with –ed.
Ex. My parents are used to me coming home late.
Now it’s your turn! Try to identify what form of “used to” should be used to fill in the blanks. If you liked this lesson don’t forget to share it with your friends and leave us a comment to let us know why!
