What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preterit
Example
She sang beautifully at the concert last night. [preterit: verb]
Example
He told me about his trip to Paris. [preterit: noun]
preterite
Example
I walked to the store yesterday. [preterite: verb]
Example
The preterite tense is used to describe past events. [preterite: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Preterite is more commonly used than preterit in both American and British English. It is also more commonly used in informal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preterit and preterite?
Preterit is more formal than preterite, and is typically used in academic or professional writing. Preterite, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
