A1adjective1K

Past

UK /["/pɑːst/"]/US /["/pæst/"]/

Definition

gone by in time

In simple words: Something that happened before now.

Examples

  • I always look at past photos when I miss my childhood.
  • She has a past that she chooses not to talk about.
  • He learned from his past mistakes and improved.
  • The past is an important part of our history.
  • We visited the museum to learn about the past civilizations.

Usage notes

Used to describe things that have already occurred. Can refer to time (the past) or past events. In writing, be careful not to confuse with 'present' or 'future'.

Grammar pattern

standalone word

Memory hint

Think of a 'past' path; you can't walk back on it, only remember it.

Collocations

  • past tense
  • past events
  • in the past
  • past experiences

Synonyms

  • history
  • preceding time
  • previous
  • bygone

Antonyms

  • future

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'passed' (the verb form)
  • Using 'past' improperly with present tense
  • Confusing 'the past' with 'history'