Learn English – Show Showed Shown

past-tenseverb-formsverbs

I have been using 'showed' as past simple form of the verb 'show' and 'shown' as past participle.

But recently, I read somewhere that it is used as 'show' 'showed' and 'showed' in UK English and 'show' 'showed' and 'shown' in US English as base form, past simple and past participle respectively.

I am confused now what I have been using, that was correct or the latter part is correct?

Please clarify.

Best Answer

Yes, in US English:

I show the picture every day. I will show the picture tomorrow. I showed the picture yesterday. I had shown the picture before you told me not to. I was shown the picture on many occasions.

Saying "was showed" or "had showed" is considered a sign of poor English skills. It is a common mistake for children and poorly-educated people.

I have no idea what the convention is in the U.K., perhaps someone else can address that.

Update:

I think most English verbs use a X/Xed/Xed pattern. But there are many that are irregular.

I try to exercise every day. I tried to exercise yesterday. I have tried to exercise for years.

And: I shave every day. I shaved yesterday. I was shaved by the barber.

Etc.

Irregulars include show/showed/shown as above.

Also: I give compliments every day. I gave a compliment yesterday. I have given compliments often.

I think today. I thought yesterday. I have thought about it often.

I eat today. I ate yesterday. I have eaten many meals.

Etc.

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