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When to use were vs was in written grammar usage?

Here's a breakdown of when to use "were" vs. "was" in written grammar:

"Were" is used for:

* Plural Subjects: When the subject of the sentence is plural (more than one person or thing).

* "You" as the subject: Even though "you" is singular, it takes the plural form of the verb "were."

* Past Tense of "to be" with "I" and "you": While these pronouns are singular, they take the plural verb form "were" in the past tense.

Examples:

* The cats were playing in the yard. (Cats is plural)

* You were at the party last night. (You takes the plural form)

* I was tired, but you were full of energy. ("I" and "you" take "were" in the past tense)

"Was" is used for:

* Singular Subjects: When the subject of the sentence is singular (one person or thing).

* Third-person singular subjects: This includes "he," "she," "it," and singular nouns.

Examples:

* The cat was sleeping on the couch. (Cat is singular)

* He was happy to see his friends. (He is singular)

* The book was interesting. (Book is singular)

Key Points:

* Agreement: The verb must agree with its subject in number (singular or plural).

* Past Tense: Both "was" and "were" are past tense forms of the verb "to be."

Let me know if you'd like more examples or have any other grammar questions!

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