In English, it is possible to ask questions using the past tense. When answering these questions, you have the option of replying with long answers or short answers.[1]https://www.grammar.cl/Past/Short_Answers.htm
Short Answers
Certain questions in English allow you to respond back with a short answer.
Did
You can respond with a short answer for questions that begin with the word “Did”.
For example:
- Did you eat dinner yet? Yes, I did / No, I didn’t.
- Did she study for the exam? Yes, she did / No, she didn’t.
- Did he park the car? Yes, he did / No, he didn’t.
Was/Were
You can respond with a short answer for questions that begin with the words “Was” or “Were”.
For example:
- Was she there? Yes, she was / No, she wasn’t.
- Were they coming? Yes, there were / No, there weren’t.
- Was it busy? Yes, it was. No, she wasn’t.
Long Answers
Not all questions in English allow you to respond back with a short answer.
Questions that begin with the question words who, where, when, why, what, which, or how often require more detailed explanations.
For example:
- Who are you? I am Fred.
- Where are you from? I am from the United States.
- Why are you studying French? I am studying French because I want to visit Paris.
- What are you doing? I am reading a book.
- Which book are you reading? I am reading Harry Potter.
- How often do you work out? I work out 3 times a week.
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