"I would say that life on the whole WAS better today than in the past"? Is there anyone to explain that to me? Thanks.
2006-09-19 08:10:13 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Teaching
As noted in the previous answers, the correct verb tense to use in that sentence would be the present tense. However, if you were expressing a conditional situation, then that would use the past tense.
For example: "I would have more friends if I were taller."
2006-09-19 11:34:16 · answer #1 · answered by T. T 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It doesn't. Your sentence is not grammatically correct.
The sentence should read:
"I would say that life on the whole IS better today than in the past."
or
"I would say that life on the whole IS better today than IT WAS in the past."
Or, even better:
"Life is better today than it was in the past."
2006-09-19 15:13:26 · answer #2 · answered by Ranto 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
just depends on the meaning. if "today" is already over, life WAS better today. if you mean that life in general is better (remember "the good old days"), use "is."
2006-09-19 16:44:43 · answer #3 · answered by steven o 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think Taranto is right, unless.........who ever wrote it wrote it at night after the day was over. Peace and love.
2006-09-19 15:38:28 · answer #4 · answered by wonderwoman 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Incorrect -- should be "is better..."
2006-09-19 15:39:41 · answer #5 · answered by Isabella 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋