Imperfect Tense AR and ER: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the English language can be a challenging endeavor, especially when it comes to mastering the intricacies of verb tenses. One such complexity involves the use of “AR” and “ER” endings in the imperfect tense. In this article, I will delve into the details of these endings, their usage, and how they can be effectively employed in your writing and speaking.

What is the Imperfect Tense?

The imperfect tense is a verb tense used to describe actions or states that were in progress at a specific point in time or that were habitual or continuous in the past. It is often used to talk about past events that are not the main focus of the sentence or to describe a background situation.

AR and ER Endings in the Imperfect Tense

When forming the imperfect tense, the endings “AR” and “ER” are added to the base form of the verb. These endings are used to indicate the past continuous or past habitual actions. Let’s take a closer look at each:

As you can see from the table, the “AR” ending is used for the present participle form, while the “ER” ending is used for the past participle form. It’s important to note that the “ER” ending is not always pronounced as “er” but can vary depending on the vowel sound of the base verb.

Using AR and ER Endings in Sentences

Now that we understand the endings, let’s see how they can be used in sentences. Here are some examples:

1. I was reading a book when the phone rang.

2. They were swimming in the pool when it started to rain.

3. She used to run every morning before work.

In these examples, the “AR” and “ER” endings are used to describe actions that were in progress at a specific point in time or that were habitual in the past.

Common Mistakes and Tips

When using “AR” and “ER” endings in the imperfect tense, it’s important to be aware of some common mistakes:

• Confusing AR and ER endings: Make sure you know the difference between the present participle and the past participle forms of verbs.
• Incorrect pronunciation: Pay attention to the vowel sounds in the base verb to ensure the correct pronunciation of the “ER” ending.
• Using the wrong tense: Double-check that you are using the imperfect tense when describing past actions that were in progress or habitual.

Here are some tips to help you master the use of “AR” and “ER” endings:

• Practice: Regularly practice forming and using the imperfect tense in sentences.
• Use a dictionary: Look up the correct forms of verbs in a dictionary to ensure accuracy.
• Read and listen: Read and listen to English language materials to become more familiar with the usage of “AR” and “ER” endings in context.

By following these tips and being mindful of common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the use of “AR” and “ER” endings in the imperfect tense.

Conclusion

Understanding and using the “AR” and “ER” endings in the imperfect tense can greatly enhance your English language skills. By familiarizing yourself with the rules and practicing regularly, you’ll be able to effectively convey past actions and states in your writing and speaking. So, go ahead and put these endings