When to Use “Past” vs. “Passed” ?

Answer: “Past” relates to time or direction while “passed” is the past tense of the verb “pass” indicating movement or time elapsed.

1. “Past” (Adjective, Noun, Adverb, or Preposition):
   • Meaning: “Past” is a versatile word used in different grammatical roles. As an adjective, it refers to a time before the present. As a noun, it denotes a time or period that has gone by. As an adverb, it means beyond in time or space. As a preposition, it indicates movement or location beyond a certain point.
   • Examples:
     • Adjective: “In past years, technology has advanced significantly.”
     • Noun: “The past holds valuable lessons.”
     • Adverb: “He walked past without noticing.”
     • Preposition: “She walked past the park.”
2. “Passed” (Past Tense and Past Participle of “Pass”):
   • Meaning: “Passed” is the past tense and past participle of the verb “pass.” It is used to indicate movement, the act of going beyond, or the passage of time.
   • Examples:
     • “He passed the finish line first.”
     • “Time has passed quickly.”

Points to remember:

• Use “past” when referring to time, direction, or location.
• Use “passed” when indicating the past tense or past participle of the verb “pass” in the context of movement or the elapse of time.

In summary, while “past” is a versatile word used as an adjective, noun, adverb, or preposition to denote time or direction, “passed” specifically serves as the past tense and past participle of the verb “pass,” indicating movement or the passage of time.