The irregular verb "hurt" carries the weight of pain, physical or emotional, staying constant across past and participle forms. Here, we explore its depth, uses, and examples to soothe learners into using it with care and precision.
What Is the Past Tense of Hurt?
The past tense of "hurt" is "hurt," irregular for all subjects (e.g., I hurt, they hurt). It means to cause pain or damage, physical or emotional. The past participle is "hurt."
"Hurt" as a Past Tense
The simple past "hurt" shows past injury or harm.
Past Tense Examples:
- He hurt his leg yesterday.
- Her words hurt me last night.
- They hurt our chances early.
"Hurt" as a Past Participle
The past participle "hurt" forms perfect or passive sentences.
Past Participle Examples:
- She has hurt no one here.
- By then, he had hurt his pride.
- Players were hurt in the game.
The Different Meanings of "Hurt"
"Hurt" spans body, mind, and impact.
a. To Cause Physical Pain
- Past tense: I hurt my arm falling.
- Past participle: He has hurt his knee.
b. To Cause Emotional Harm
- Past tense: Lies hurt her feelings.
- Past participle: Trust has been hurt.
c. To Damage or Hinder
- Past tense: Rain hurt the crops.
- Past participle: Sales were hurt last year.
Examples of "Hurt" in Sentences
Using "Hurt" (Past Tense)
- I hurt my hand while cooking.
- She hurt him with gossip.
- Delays hurt our plans.
Using "Hurt" (Past Participle)
- They have hurt their cause.
- He had hurt himself trying.
- Fans were hurt by the loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s an idiom with "hurt"?
"Hurt for" means need (e.g., They hurt for help last month).
Is it formal?
Yes, but "injured" suits legal talk for bodies.
Conclusion
The steady “hurt” carries emotional and physical weight in your sentences. Knowing its forms helps you articulate pain and impact thoughtfully, enhancing your ability to connect in English.