Question

We use Past Continuous for: * actions which were in the pastordinary everyday actionsto describe timetableactions which were in progress at a certain time in the pastactions which began in the past and still ongoingfuture actions​

Answer 1

We use Past Continuous for:

- actions which were in progress at a certain time in the past

Answer 2

Past Continuous is primarily used for describing actions that were in progress at a certain time in the past. While it can be used for other purposes as well, such as indicating future actions in some contexts, it's important to clarify its main function:

1. Actions in Progress at a Certain Time in the Past: Past Continuous is commonly used to describe actions that were ongoing at a specific point or period in the past. It is used to emphasize the duration of an action or to provide background information when narrating past events.

   Example:

   • I was studying when she called me yesterday. (The action of studying was in progress when she called.)

2. Actions Which Began in the Past and Were Still Ongoing: Past Continuous can also be used to indicate actions that started in the past and were still ongoing at another point in the past. This usage often involves the conjunction "for" or "since" to indicate the duration.

   Example:

   • He had been working at the company for five years before he got promoted. (The action of working started in the past and continued up to a specific point in the past.)

However, the other points you mentioned are not typical uses of the Past Continuous tense:

• Past Continuous is not commonly used for ordinary everyday actions. For routine or habitual actions in the past, the Simple Past tense is more appropriate.

  Example:

  • I watched TV every evening after work. (Simple Past)

• Past Continuous is not used to describe timetables. Timetables are typically described using the Simple Present tense or other appropriate tenses, depending on the context.

• Past Continuous is not used for future actions. For describing future actions, the future tenses like "will" or "going to" are used.

  Example:

  • I will be studying for the exam tomorrow. (Future action)

In summary, while Past Continuous is mainly used for actions in progress at a certain time in the past and actions that began in the past and were ongoing, it is not used for the other purposes you mentioned. Different tenses and forms are used for those specific contexts.