Past: meaning, definitions and examples

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past

 

[ pæst ]

Noun / Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

in time

the time that has gone by

Synonyms

former times, history.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
past

Can also mean the same as 'previous' or 'elapsed', focusing on the duration that is no longer present.

  • John is a changed man; his past behavior was wild.
  • Over the past year, we have seen many changes.
history

Used when referring to events, periods, or people documented and studied over time. It is often more formal and implies a broader scope.

  • The history of ancient Egypt is fascinating.
  • We should study history to understand how our society evolved.
former times

Typically used to describe a period that is significantly different from the present, often nostalgically or to note changes over time.

  • In former times, there were no cars, and people traveled by horse and carriage.
  • Former times were simpler, without advanced technology.

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.
Context #2 | Adjective

completed

having existed or taken place in a period before the present

Synonyms

former, previous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • She often thinks about her past.
  • In the past, people traveled by horse and carriage.
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.

  • I had met her on a previous occasion.
  • The previous chapter was more interesting.
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.

  • He is a former president of the company.
  • Her former husband lives in another city.

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.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #353, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.