What does WOULD mean?

Would Parts of Speech

Would is a verb and a modal auxiliary verb.

Definitions

As a verb, would is the past tense of "will". As a modal auxiliary verb, it is used to indicate a conditional or subjunctive mood, to express a polite request, or to express a habitual action in the past.

Pronunciations

US: /wʊd/

UK: /wʊd/

Origin and Usage

The word "would" comes from the Old English word "wolde" which means "wanted to". It has been used in English since at least the 12th century. It is commonly used in conditional sentences, such as "If I had more time, I would go to the gym." It is also used in polite requests, such as "Would you please pass the salt?"

Synonyms

As a verb, synonyms for "would" include "wanted", "desired", and "wished for". As a modal auxiliary verb, synonyms include "could", "should", and "might".

Related Words

Words related to "would" include "should", "could", "might", "shall", and "ought".

Example Sentences

• As a verb: "Yesterday, he would not stop talking about his new car."
• As a modal auxiliary verb expressing a conditional mood: "If I had more money, I would buy a new house."
• As a modal auxiliary verb expressing a polite request: "Would you mind closing the window?"
• As a modal auxiliary verb expressing a habitual action in the past: "When I was young, I would always play outside."