Unreal Past, Politeness, and Narrative Sequence
Advanced nuances:
ā¢ The "Unreal" Past (Subjunctive): Used after "I wish," "If only," "It's time," "Suppose." Refers to present/future hypothetical situations, not past time. ("I wish I knew.")
ā¢ Social Distancing/Politeness: "Did you want to see me?" (Present meaning, but Past Tense softens it).
ā¢ Narrative Sequencing: Precise ordering of events without always relying on Past Perfect, provided the valid order is clear.
ā¢ Habits: "Used to" vs "Would" vs Simple Past.