Learn English – “had not done” vs “did not do” in a sentence

past-simple

At last, yesterday I listened to this radio show, although I did not do it before because I was busy.

At last, yesterday I listened to this radio show, although I had not done it before because I was busy.

Which one is the best? I think both are correct perhaps past perfect is better
even if before indicate clearly the order of the event.

Best Answer

At last, yesterday I listened to this radio show, although I did not do it before because I was busy.

"Did not" is a bit more direct. It implies that you recently had a chance to do something, and either were unable to, or chose not to.

At last, yesterday I listened to this radio show, although I had not done it before because I was busy.

"Had not" is a bit "loose." It implies that you should have done it in the past, but you have not done it up to this point.

However

I would rewrite this sentence if it was mine.

At last, yesterday I listened to the radio show

The first part rolls off the tongue uncomfortably. I would shorten it and remove the comma.

I finally listened to the radio show yesterday


, although I did not do it before because I was busy.

, although I had not done it before because I was busy.

I would also rewrite the second part, although that is mostly personal preference.

; I did not do it before because I was busy.

; I had not done it before because I was busy.

My final sentences (personal preference):

I finally listened to the radio show yesterday; I did not do it before because I was busy.

I finally listened to the radio show yesterday; I had not done it before because I was busy.

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