tended

word · lemma: tend

Definition

Past tense of 'tend'. Used to describe what someone usually did, what often happened, or to say someone took care of something.

Usage & Nuances

'Tended' is often followed by 'to' (e.g. 'tended to forget'), showing a usual habit. It can also mean 'took care of' (e.g. 'She tended the garden'). 'Tended' is more formal or written; in speech, people use 'used to' or 'looked after'.

Example Sentences

Whenever it rained, traffic tended to get really bad here.

natural

He tended to arrive late to school.

basic

She tended the plants in her garden every morning.

basic

Our meetings tended to be very short.

basic

He tended to forget people's names right after meeting them.

natural

When I was younger, I tended to be shy around new people.

natural