would

verb, past of will Etymology: Middle English wolde, from Old English; akin to Old High German wolta wished, desired Date: before 12th century 1. a. archaic wished, desired b. archaic wish for ; want c. (1) strongly desire ; wish <

I would I were young again

> — often used without a subject and with that in a past or conditional construction <

would that I had heeded your advice

> (2) — used in auxiliary function with rather or sooner to express preference <

he would sooner die than face them

> 2. a. — used in auxiliary function to express wish, desire, or intent <

those who would forbid gambling

> b. — used in auxiliary function to express willingness or preference <

as ye would that men should do to you — Luke 6:31 (Authorized Version)

> c. — used in auxiliary function to express plan or intention <

said we would come

> 3. — used in auxiliary function to express custom or habitual action <

we would meet often for lunch

> 4. — used in auxiliary function to express consent or choice <

would put it off if he could

> 5. a. — used in auxiliary function in the conclusion of a conditional sentence to express a contingency or possibility <

if he were coming, he would be here now

> b. — used in auxiliary function in a noun clause (as one completing a statement of desire, request, or advice) <

we wish that he would go

> 6. — used in auxiliary function to express probability or presumption in past or present time <

would have won if I had not tripped

> 7. could <

the barrel would hold 20 gallons

> 8. — used in auxiliary function to express a request with which voluntary compliance is expected <

would you please help us

> 9. — used in auxiliary function to express doubt or uncertainty <

the explanation…would seem satisfactory

> 10. should <

knew I would enjoy the trip

> <

would be glad to know the answer

>