would
Translation
would (conditional), would (past habit), would (polite request)
Examples
I would help you if I could.
I would help you if I could.
Would you like a cup of tea?
Would you like a cup of tea?
He said he would call me later.
He said he would call me later.
She would often read for hours.
She would often read for hours.
Grammar Patterns
((+ bare infinitive)) to express a hypothetical situation. I would go, but I'm busy.
((you + bare infinitive?)) to make a polite request or offer. Would you help me?
((like to + bare infinitive)) to express a desire politely. I would like to order now.
Similar Words
Similar: (context-dependent) might, could. Antonyms: none
Etymology
From Old English 'wolde', the past tense of 'willan' meaning 'to wish, to will'.
Memory Tips
Remember its three main uses: conditional (if...), polite requests (Would you...), and past habits (We would always...).