"time was passed" vs "time was past"

Question

"time was passed" vs "time was past"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Time was past' is used to indicate that a particular time had already occurred, while 'time was passed' is used to indicate that time had elapsed or gone by.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that a period of time had passed or gone by.

Examples:

As we sat in silence, the hours were passed without us even noticing.
The time was passed quickly as we engaged in lively conversation.
The deadline was passed before we could complete the task.
The time was passed waiting for the train to arrive.
The night was passed in deep contemplation.

Alternatives:

time had passed
time had gone by
time elapsed

This phrase is used to refer to a specific time that has already happened or occurred in the past.

Examples:

The deadline for the project was past, and we had to submit it immediately.
By the time I arrived, the event was past, and I had missed it.
The time for negotiation was past, and now we had to make a decision.
The opportunity to apply for the scholarship was past, and I regretted not doing it earlier.
The moment for action was past, and now we had to face the consequences.

Alternatives:

time had passed
time had elapsed
time had gone by

Answer 1

time was passed

This phrase is correct and is commonly used in English to indicate that time had elapsed or gone by.

Answer 2

time was past

This phrase is correct and is commonly used in English to indicate that a particular time had already occurred.

"time was passed" vs "time was past"

time was passed

time was past

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