“Was” or “Were”? How to Get It Right Every Time

Have you ever wondered if you should write was or were? Don’t worry—you’re not alone!

Today, Midoo AI will show you the easy way to use these two words correctly, with clear rules and examples you can copy into your own writing.

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Was – Singular and Past

Was is the past tense form of to be for:

  • I (first person singular)
  • He/She/It (third person singular)

Examples:

  • I was tired after the trip.
  • She was very happy yesterday.
  • It was raining all night.
  • He was at the meeting this morning.
  • I was late to class.

👉 Tip: Use was when talking about one person or thing in the past.

Were – Plural and Past

Were is the past tense form of to be for:

  • You/We/They (plural subjects)
  • Sometimes with “if” or “wish” (subjunctive mood).

Examples:

  • We were excited about the news.
  • They were at the park last weekend.
  • You were very helpful yesterday.
  • If I were taller, I could play basketball better.
  • I wish it were sunny today.

👉 Tip: Use were for plural subjects, and also in special sentences with if or wish.

Quick Trick to Remember

  • Was = singular (I, he, she, it).
  • Were = plural (you, we, they) + special cases (if and wish).

Example in one sentence:

  • I was at home, but they were at the party.

Final Tip from Midoo AI

Here’s the shortcut:

  • Use was for one person or thing in the past.
  • Use were for more than one, or when imagining situations.

Get this rule down, and you’ll never hesitate between was and were again.

FAQS:

Q1: Can I say “I were”?

Normally, no. The correct form is “I was.” But in sentences with if or wish, we say “If I were…”

Q2: Why do we say “If I were you” and not “If I was you”?

Because this is the subjunctive mood. It talks about imaginary or unreal situations, so we use were even with “I.”

Q3: Is “was” ever used with plural subjects?

Not in standard English. It’s always were for plural. Example: “They were friends in school.”

Q4: What about in casual speech?

In informal speech, some people say “If I was you,” but in correct English, “If I were you” is preferred.

Q5: Which one should I use in professional writing?

Always follow the grammar rule:

  • Was = singular past.
  • Were = plural past + subjunctive.