"when was the last time" vs "when is the last time"

Question

"when was the last time" vs "when is the last time"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'When is the last time' is used when asking about a recurring event or action that happened recently, while 'When was the last time' is used when asking about a past event or action that occurred at an unspecified time in the past.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

This phrase is used to inquire about the most recent occurrence of a past event or action. It implies that the event or action happened at an unspecified time in the past.

Examples:

When was the last time you visited your grandparents?
When was the last time you ate sushi?

Alternatives:

When is the last time
When did you last
When was the most recent time
When did you last time

This phrase is used to inquire about the most recent occurrence of a recurring event or action. It implies that the event or action has happened recently.

Examples:

When is the last time you went to the gym?
When is the last time you saw your friend?

Alternatives:

When was the last time
When did you last
When was the most recent time
When did you last time

Answer 1

when was the last time

This phrase is correct when asking about a past event or action that occurred at an unspecified time in the past.

Answer 2

when is the last time

This phrase is correct when asking about a recurring event or action that happened recently.

"when was the last time" vs "when is the last time"

when was the last time

when is the last time

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