when i used to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when I used to" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to something that happened before, but no longer occurs, such as in the sentence: "When I used to live in New York, I would take the subway everywhere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"She resembled me when I used to be young".

The New York Times

One, when I used to go and watch Newcastle.

The Guardian

"The community is much better now than when I used to know it," she said.

Independent

When I used to go to weddings, I was the tallest.

The New York Times

"I have done a lot with female presenters when I used to work in science.

The Guardian

"I'm in as good shape now as when I used to go to the gym".

The New York Times

I remember changing channels on the television, back when I used to watch it.

Independent

"When I used to go to Morris Park, I just walked".

The New York Times

"When I used to have free time, I didn't know what to do," he said.

The New York Times

When I used to sleep over there I'd worry that someone would something to me".

Independent

When I used to need a fix of pessimism porn, Grantham was my go-to.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a past situation that is no longer true, "when I used to" helps provide context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

Be mindful not to repeat the past tense unnecessarily within the same sentence. For example, avoid phrases like "When I used to did...", as "used to" already implies past tense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when I used to" functions as an introductory clause, setting the temporal context for a statement by indicating a past period or habit. It's typically followed by a main clause that describes a related event or state, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when I used to" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to set a past temporal context. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to introduce a clause that contrasts with the present, providing relevant background information. It maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts, predominantly appearing in news and media sources. Remember to avoid redundant phrasing and consider alternative expressions to enrich your writing. Overall, this phrase is a reliable way to convey past habits and states in your writing or speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the days when I used to

Adds a more descriptive and slightly nostalgic tone.

back when I would

Similar meaning, but emphasizes repeated actions in the past.

during the time I used to

Focuses on a specific period in the past.

in my former days

More formal and literary way to refer to a past period of one's life.

previously, when I

More concise and direct way to indicate a past action or state.

before I stopped

Highlights the cessation of a past habit or activity.

when I was in the habit of

Emphasizes the habitual nature of a past action.

in the past when I

Simple and direct way to indicate a past time.

at a time when I

Highlights a specific moment or period in the past.

when I once did

Emphasizes that the action was done at least one time.

FAQs

How can I use "when I used to" in a sentence?

You can use "when I used to" to describe past habits or states that are no longer true. For example, "When I used to live in New York, I took the subway everywhere."

What's a more formal alternative to "when I used to"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "in my former days" or "previously, when I." These options offer a similar meaning but with increased formality.

Is it correct to say "when I was used to" instead of "when I used to"?

While "when I used to" indicates a past habit, "when I was used to" implies that you were accustomed to something. They have different meanings and are not interchangeable. For example, "When I was used to the cold, I didn't wear a jacket."

What's the difference between "when I used to" and "when I would"?

"When I used to" generally refers to a state or habit that was true for a period of time. "When I would" often describes repeated actions or events in the past. For example, "When I would visit my grandparents, we'd always bake cookies together."