They did not use to like us. vs They used to like us.

Both phrases are correct, but they convey different meanings. "They did not use to like us." implies that in the past, they did not like us, while "They used to like us." indicates that in the past, they liked us but may not anymore.

Last updated: March 08, 2024 • 874 views

They did not use to like us.

This phrase is correct but less common than the alternative.

This phrase is used to express that in the past, someone did not like us. It emphasizes the negative aspect of the past behavior.

Examples:

They did not use to like spicy food, but now they love it.
She did not use to enjoy reading, but now she reads every day.

Alternatives:

They used to like us.
They didn't use to like us.
They were not used to liking us.
They were not accustomed to liking us.
They were not in the habit of liking us.

They used to like us.

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that in the past, they liked us. It implies a change in their feelings or behavior over time.

Examples:

They used to like us, but something changed and now they avoid us.
I used to like coffee, but now I prefer tea.

Show examples from the web [+]

Mar 6, 2012 ... ... written in past-habitual tense describes an event that previously happened continuously. “They used to like me.” “They used to like us.” ...
They used to talk of human rights. Some people, these landlords, rich people, the casteist people, they did not like us, but the poor people they used to like us.
Jun 1, 2011 ... They used to like us to come out into the playground and kneel on the bitumen and say decades of the Rosary. If we complained or moaned or ...
“They used to like us round.” “Strong.” “Big.” “Kolupittya Auntie.” Amma's voice cut in and Sita could imagine her frowning. “Why isn't she dressed yet?”.

Alternatives:

They did not use to like us.
They didn't use to like us.
They were not used to liking us.
They were not accustomed to liking us.
They were not in the habit of liking us.

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They did not use to like us. vs They used to like us.