verb
would
Used to express a hypothetical action, a past habit, or a polite request.
I would join you for dinner if I had time.
Etymology
Would developed as the past form of will. Its uses expanded from past intention to habitual action, hypothetical situations, and politely softened requests.
More examples
- Every summer, we would camp beside the lake.
- If you have a moment, would you check my work?
- Without your help, this project would take much longer.
Forms
would