Past: meaning, definitions and examples
⏪
past
[ pæst ]
in time
the time that has gone by
Synonyms
former times, history.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
past |
Can also mean the same as 'previous' or 'elapsed', focusing on the duration that is no longer present.
|
history |
Used when referring to events, periods, or people documented and studied over time. It is often more formal and implies a broader scope.
|
former times |
Typically used to describe a period that is significantly different from the present, often nostalgically or to note changes over time.
|
Examples of usage
- The past few years have been difficult for her.
- He is always dwelling on the past.
- We can't change the past, so let's focus on the future.
completed
having existed or taken place in a period before the present
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
past |
Refers to a time period that has already happened and is no longer present. It is commonly used to talk about general events or periods that occurred before now.
|
previous |
Often used to refer to something that happened or existed before a specific event or time. It is used when comparing the current state to an earlier state.
|
former |
Used to describe something or someone that was previously in a particular position or state, but no longer is. It often refers to roles, titles, or relationships that have ended.
|
Examples of usage
- Her past achievements are impressive.
- The past events shaped his future decisions.
Translations
Translations of the word "past" in other languages:
🇵🇹 passado
🇮🇳 अतीत
🇩🇪 Vergangenheit
🇮🇩 masa lalu
🇺🇦 минуле
🇵🇱 przeszłość
🇯🇵 過去 (kako)
🇫🇷 passé
🇪🇸 pasado
🇹🇷 geçmiş
🇰🇷 과거 (gwageo)
🇸🇦 ماضي (mādī)
🇨🇿 minulost
🇸🇰 minulosť
🇨🇳 过去 (guòqù)
🇸🇮 preteklost
🇮🇸 fortíð
🇰🇿 өткен шақ
🇬🇪 წარსული (ts'arsuli)
🇦🇿 keçmiş
🇲🇽 pasado
Etymology
The word 'past' originated from the Middle English word 'past', which in turn came from the Old French word 'past', meaning 'gone by'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of the past has intrigued philosophers, historians, and thinkers for centuries, leading to various theories and discussions about its impact on the present and future.
See also: antipasto, pasta, paste, pastime, pastor, pasture, pasty.