11月25日号： Used to and be used to

Although used to and be used to look very similar, they have very different meanings and uses. Let’s take a look at how we use them in conversation.

Used to + verb means that something was true before, but it is not true now. Because we are talking about the past, we use the past tense form used to. For example:

◆ I used to live in America, but now I live in Japan.

◆ He used to like spicy food, but now he doesn’t eat it.

◆ I used to work at that company.

We can also use use to in statements using didn't and questions using did/didn't. In these sentences, we need to use the present tense form use to.

◆ She didn’t use to exercise, but now she goes to the gym every day.

◆ I didn’t use to drink coffee, but now I have a cup every morning.

◆ Did you use to study Japanese when you lived in Canada?

◆ Didn’t she use to have a blue car?

Be used to + noun / gerund means that something is normal or usual. For example:

◆ My job is very busy, but I am used to the schedule. (= The schedule is normal for me)

◆ I have been living in Tokyo for a long time, so I am used to taking the train everywhere. (= Taking the train is normal for me)

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英会話イーオン東京本社教務課コーディネーター。イーオン教師のトレーニングや英語セミナーを企画制作するカリスマ教師として活躍中。カリフォルニア大学バークレー校卒業。趣味は読書、料理、クラフトワーク。