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Interrupted vs. Parallel Actions

Learn how to use the Past Continuous to describe interrupted and parallel actions in the past. Understand sentences like While I was cooking, she was setting the table.

What Are Interrupted vs. Parallel Actions?

Interrupted actions are actions that were in progress when something else happened. Parallel actions are two actions happening at the same time in the past.

Why Is This Important?

Using Past Continuous correctly helps you describe past events that were either interrupted or happening simultaneously.

How to Use Past Continuous for Interrupted vs. Parallel Actions

To describe interrupted actions, use while + Past Continuous for the ongoing action and when + Past Simple for the interrupting action.
For parallel actions, use while + Past Continuous for both actions happening at the same time.

Common Examples

While I was cooking, she was setting the table. (Parallel actions)
While I was cooking, the phone rang. (Interrupted action)

Key Points

  • Use Past Continuous for ongoing actions in the past
    • While I was walking, it started to rain.
    • She was working all day yesterday.
  • Use 'while' for parallel actions happening at the same time
    • While he was cooking, she was cleaning the kitchen.
    • We were studying while they were watching TV.
  • Use 'when' for interrupting actions
    • I was reading when the lights went out.
    • She was waiting when the bus arrived.

Rules for Using Past Continuous for Interrupted vs. Parallel Actions

  • Use Past Continuous for the ongoing action

    • I was walking when I saw the accident.
    • We were talking when she entered the room.
    • While he was studying, she was cooking.

  • Use Past Simple for the interrupting action

    • I was watching TV when the phone rang.
    • She was reading when the door banged.
    • He was walking when it started to rain.

  • Use 'while' for parallel actions happening at the same time

    • We were singing while they were dancing.
    • He was studying while she was playing the piano.
    • She was reading while I was cooking.

  • Special Cases & Exceptions:

    In some cases, actions can be in the same time frame but not be connected directly.

  • 'While' can introduce two actions that are happening at the same time, but may not be directly linked.

    • While I was shopping, she was at work.
ExampleTenseUse
While I was cooking, she was setting the table.Past ContinuousParallel actions happening at the same time
While I was cooking, the phone rang.Past Continuous + Past SimpleOngoing action interrupted by a completed action
While he was walking, it started to rain.Past Continuous + Past SimpleOngoing action interrupted by a new action
We were studying while they were watching TV.Past ContinuousParallel actions happening at the same time

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the creators of these videos. These are publicly available resources used to provide additional information on the topic.