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When to use were vs where in written grammar usage?

"Were" and "where" are two completely different words with distinct functions in grammar:

Were

* Verb: "Were" is the past tense plural form of the verb "to be." It indicates something existed or happened in the past.

* Example: "They were at the park yesterday."

* Example: "We were very tired after the hike."

Where

* Adverb: "Where" refers to a place or location. It asks or tells you about the location of something.

* Example: "Where is the library?"

* Example: "We met where the river meets the ocean."

Here's how to remember the difference:

* Were: Think of it as relating to *past existence* or *being*.

* Where: Think of it as relating to *place* or *location*.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is using "where" instead of "were" in sentences that describe a past state of being. For example, you wouldn't say "Where they at the park yesterday?" because "where" doesn't fit the meaning.

To avoid confusion, always check if you're talking about a location or a past state of being.

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