Confused about 'use to' and 'used to'? You're not alone! This grammar gremlin trips up even seasoned writers. Let's break it down.
'**Used to**' (with a 'd') describes something you *did* regularly in the past, but no longer do. Think of it as a past habit or state. Example: 'I *used to* play the piano, but I haven't touched it in years.'
'**Use to**' (without a 'd') is almost always incorrect! The exception? When it's part of a question or negative statement *with* the auxiliary verb 'did'. For example: 'Did you *use to* live here?' or 'I didn't *use to* like broccoli, but now I do.'
**Key takeaway:** If you're describing a past habit in a positive statement, always use 'used to' with the 'd'. When forming a question or negative sentence about past habits, the 'did' already indicates past tense, so the 'd' is dropped from 'used'. Practice these rules and banish 'use to' errors forever!
