How To Use “Become And Became” In A Sentence: Diving Deeper

Have you ever found yourself puzzled by the correct usage of “become” and “became” in a sentence? Fear not, for in this article, we will unravel the mysteries surrounding these two words. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to use “become” and “became” with confidence and precision.

So, what is the proper way to use “become” and “became” in a sentence? Let’s start with a brief explanation. “Become” is the present tense form of the verb, while “became” is the past tense form. Understanding when to use each form is essential for constructing grammatically correct sentences.

Now, let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of using “become” and “became” in various contexts.

Definition Of Become And Became

When it comes to understanding the usage of “become” and “became” in a sentence, it is essential to grasp their basic definitions and how they have evolved over time. These two words belong to the verb category and are commonly used in the English language to express a change or transformation. Let’s delve into their meanings and explore any variations in different contexts.

Basic Definition Of “Become And Became”

Both “become” and “became” are forms of the verb “become.” The word “become” refers to the process of changing or developing into something different. It signifies a transition from one state or condition to another. “Became” is the past tense form of “become” and is used to describe an action or state that occurred in the past.

For example:

• “She wants to become a doctor.” (present tense)
• “He became a renowned artist after years of practice.” (past tense)

Historical Evolution

While there is no significant historical evolution specific to the words “become” and “became,” their usage can be traced back to Old English. The word “become” originated from the Old English word “becuman,” which meant “to come to” or “to happen.” Over time, its meaning expanded to include the concept of transformation or change.

Any Different Meanings In Different Contexts

The usage of “become” and “became” can vary depending on the context in which they are used. Here are a few examples:

1. Becoming a state or condition:

In this context, “become” is used to indicate a change in one’s state or condition. It implies a transformation or progression towards a specific outcome.

Example:

• “She became more confident after taking public speaking classes.”
• “The caterpillar will become a butterfly.”

2. Becoming an occupation or role:

“Become” can also be used to express the process of acquiring a particular occupation or role. It denotes a transition from one profession or identity to another.

Example:

• “After years of training, he became a professional athlete.”
• “She aspires to become a successful entrepreneur.”

3. Becoming suitable or appropriate:

In certain contexts, “become” is used to indicate that something is suitable, appropriate, or fitting for a particular purpose or situation.

Example:

• “The red dress becomes her, enhancing her natural beauty.”
• “His calm demeanor becomes a leader in times of crisis.”

It is important to note that the usage of “become” and “became” can vary further depending on the tense, voice, and other grammatical factors within a sentence. By understanding their basic definitions and exploring their different meanings in various contexts, one can effectively utilize these words to convey the desired message.

How To Properly Use Become And Became In A Sentence

When it comes to using the words “become” and “became” in a sentence, understanding the grammatical rules is essential. These words belong to the verb category and are commonly used to indicate a transformation or a change of state. However, it is important to note that “become” is the base form of the verb, while “became” is the past tense form.

Let’s delve deeper into the grammatical rules surrounding the usage of “become” and “became” in different contexts:

1. Basic Usage

When using “become” in a sentence, it is important to remember that it functions as a linking verb. This means that it connects the subject of the sentence with a word or phrase that describes or renames it. For example:

• She became a successful entrepreneur.
• He became interested in art at a young age.
• The caterpillar became a beautiful butterfly.

In these examples, “became” is used to indicate a transition or a change in state from one condition to another. It emphasizes the process of transformation.

2. Past Tense Usage

On the other hand, “became” is the past tense form of “become” and is used to describe an action or state that occurred in the past. It is important to note that “became” is used specifically when referring to the past and should not be used to describe ongoing or present actions. For example:

• She became a doctor after years of studying.
• They became close friends during their time in college.
• The weather suddenly became colder.

In these examples, “became” is used to indicate a change or transformation that happened in the past. It highlights a specific point in time when the transformation occurred.

3. Different Parts Of Speech

While “become” and “became” primarily function as verbs, it is worth mentioning that they can also be used as other parts of speech in certain contexts. Here are a few examples:

Part of Speech	Example Sentence
Noun	His dream was to achieve become.
Adjective	The becoming dress suited her perfectly.
Adverb	She danced becomingly on the stage.

These examples demonstrate how “become” and “became” can take on different roles in a sentence, depending on the context and the intended meaning.

In conclusion, understanding the proper usage of “become” and “became” is crucial for effective communication. By following the grammatical rules and considering the context, you can confidently incorporate these words into your sentences and convey your intended meaning with precision.

Examples Of Using Become And Became In A Sentence

When it comes to the usage of “become” and “became,” these words hold significant power in the English language. Their ability to convey transformation and change is invaluable. To truly grasp their essence, let’s explore a collection of sentences that showcase the versatility and nuances of these words.

Simple Sentences:

• She became a renowned pianist after years of dedicated practice.
• The caterpillar becomes a butterfly during its metamorphosis.
• With his hard work and determination, he became the CEO of the company.
• The weather suddenly changed, and the peaceful morning became a stormy afternoon.
• After intense training, the young athlete became an Olympic champion.

These simple sentences demonstrate the straightforward usage of “become” and “became” to describe a clear transformation or change. They provide a solid foundation for understanding the basic meaning of these words.

Complex Sentences:

• As the sun set, the once barren landscape became a picturesque vista, adorned with vibrant hues.
• Despite facing numerous obstacles, she became a beacon of hope for those in need.
• After years of research and experimentation, the scientist became the leading authority in his field.
• Through her tireless efforts, she became a catalyst for positive change in her community.
• With each passing day, the little sapling became a majestic oak tree, symbolizing strength and resilience.

The complex sentences above showcase the versatility of “become” and “became” in conveying more intricate transformations. They emphasize the impact of gradual change, overcoming challenges, and personal growth.

It is important to note that “become” and “became” can have multiple meanings depending on the context. These examples highlight the various nuances in which these words can be used, allowing for a deeper understanding of their usage.

Edge Cases Or Things To Consider

When it comes to using the words “become” and “became” in a sentence, there are a few common mistakes that people often make. It is important to be aware of these errors to ensure clear and effective communication. Additionally, it is worth noting that cultural or regional differences may influence the usage of these words.

Common Mistakes People Make When Using “Become” And “Became”

1. Incorrect tense usage: One common mistake is using the wrong tense when using “become” or “became” in a sentence. It is crucial to understand the distinction between the present and past tenses of these words.

Example:

• Incorrect: She become a doctor last year.
• Correct: She became a doctor last year.

2. Subject-verb agreement: Another mistake is failing to ensure subject-verb agreement when using “become” or “became.” The verb must agree with the subject in terms of number and person.

Example:

• Incorrect: They becomes friends quickly.
• Correct: They become friends quickly.

3. Omitting auxiliary verbs: Sometimes, people omit auxiliary verbs when using “become” or “became,” resulting in incomplete or incorrect sentences.

Example:

• Incorrect: He a successful entrepreneur.
• Correct: He became a successful entrepreneur.

Cultural Or Regional Differences

It is essential to acknowledge that cultural or regional differences can influence the usage of “become” and “became” in a sentence. While the basic rules of grammar remain the same, idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms may vary across different English-speaking communities.

For example, certain regions or dialects may have unique ways of using these words or may prefer alternative terms that convey a similar meaning. It is important to be mindful of these cultural nuances when communicating with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Furthermore, cultural differences can also impact the frequency and context in which “become” and “became” are used. Certain cultures may prioritize different life goals or career paths, resulting in variations in the frequency of using these words to describe personal or professional growth.

While it is crucial to adhere to the standard rules of grammar, being aware of cultural or regional differences can help foster better understanding and effective communication in various English-speaking contexts.

Synonyms Or Alternates To Use

When it comes to expressing the concept of change or transformation in a sentence, the words “become” and “became” are commonly used. However, it’s always beneficial to have a diverse vocabulary at your disposal. Here are four synonyms or alternate words that can be used in place of “become” and “became,” along with their subtle differences in meaning and preferred contexts:

1. Transform

The word “transform” implies a complete and significant change. It suggests a profound alteration in form, character, or nature. Unlike “become,” which is more general, “transform” emphasizes a radical shift or conversion. For instance, you might use “transform” when discussing a caterpillar becoming a butterfly or a shy person becoming a confident public speaker. The term “transform” is particularly suitable when describing a dramatic and noticeable change.

2. Evolve

Similar to “become,” the word “evolve” denotes a gradual and continuous change. However, “evolve” also implies progress and development over time. It suggests a process of growth or advancement, often in response to external factors or influences. For example, you could use “evolve” to describe how technology has evolved over the years or how an individual’s beliefs have evolved through various experiences. “Evolve” is especially useful when discussing changes that occur gradually and involve adaptation.

3. Turn Into

“Turn into” is a phrasal verb that can be used as an alternate to “become” or “became.” It conveys the idea of transformation or conversion, typically from one state or condition to another. “Turn into” is often employed when discussing physical changes or when emphasizing the end result of a process. For instance, you might say that a pumpkin turns into a carriage in a fairytale or that a regular person turns into a superhero when faced with adversity. “Turn into” is particularly suitable when describing changes that involve a clear before and after.

4. Grow

While “grow” is commonly associated with physical growth, it can also be used as a synonym for “become” or “became” in certain contexts. “Grow” suggests a gradual and natural development, often involving personal or intellectual progress. It can be used to describe the acquisition of skills, knowledge, or qualities over time. For example, you could say that someone grows into a leadership role or that a friendship grows into a deep bond. “Grow” is particularly appropriate when discussing changes that involve personal development or the accumulation of experiences.

By incorporating these synonyms into your writing, you can add variety and depth to your sentences while accurately conveying the concept of change or transformation. Remember to consider the subtle differences in meaning and usage between these words, and choose the one that best suits the specific context you are writing in.

Related Phrases Or Idioms

When it comes to the usage of “become” and “became” in a sentence, there are several related phrases and idioms that incorporate these words. Understanding these expressions can help you grasp the nuances of using these verbs effectively. Let’s explore a few of these phrases and idioms:

1. Become Of

The phrase “become of” is used to inquire about the fate or outcome of someone or something. It seeks to understand what has happened to a particular person or thing. Typically, this phrase is used in a speculative or curious manner.

Example sentence: “I wonder what will become of that abandoned house.”

2. Become Of Age

“Become of age” is an idiom that refers to the point in a person’s life when they reach the legal age of adulthood. This phrase signifies the transition from being a minor to being recognized as a responsible adult in the eyes of the law.

Example sentence: “Once she becomes of age, she will have the right to vote and make her own decisions.”

3. Become Of Someone

This phrase is used to describe the change that occurs in a person’s life, often due to a significant event or circumstance. It emphasizes the transformation or evolution of an individual.

Example sentence: “Winning the lottery completely changed the life of John; he became a philanthropist overnight.”

4. Become Of Something

When we refer to the phrase “become of something,” we are discussing the ultimate fate or outcome of a particular thing or situation. It implies a state of transformation or change.

Example sentence: “What will become of this old factory once it’s demolished?”

5. Becoming Of

The idiom “becoming of” is used to describe behavior or actions that are appropriate, fitting, or suitable for a particular person or situation. It suggests that the behavior aligns with societal norms or expectations.

Example sentence: “Her graceful manners and elegant attire were becoming of a queen.”

6. Become A Thing Of The Past

This idiom indicates that something has become outdated, irrelevant, or no longer in existence. It emphasizes the idea that a particular thing or concept has been left behind as time progresses.

Example sentence: “With the advent of digital photography, film cameras have become a thing of the past.”

7. Become Second Nature

The phrase “become second nature” describes an action or behavior that has become so familiar or ingrained that it is performed effortlessly and without conscious thought. It implies a high level of proficiency or mastery.

Example sentence: “After years of practice, playing the piano has become second nature to her.”

These are just a few examples of the related phrases and idioms that incorporate “become” and “became.” By familiarizing yourself with these expressions, you can enhance your understanding of how to use these verbs in a sentence effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the correct usage of “become” and “became” is crucial for effective communication. These two words may seem simple, but their nuances can significantly impact the meaning and clarity of a sentence. By mastering their usage, you can elevate your writing and ensure that your message is accurately conveyed.

Using “become” correctly allows you to describe the process of transformation or change. It signifies a gradual shift from one state to another, highlighting the progression and development of a subject. On the other hand, “became” is used to indicate a specific point in time when a subject experienced a change or transition.

By paying attention to the context and tense of a sentence, you can determine whether to use “become” or “became” appropriately. Remember that “become” is used in the present or future tense, while “became” is used in the past tense.

Practicing the usage of “become” and “became” in your own sentences is an excellent way to reinforce your understanding and improve your writing skills. Challenge yourself to create sentences that effectively convey the intended meaning using these words. By doing so, you will become more confident in your ability to use them correctly.