twould
Definition
- Contraction (archaic/poetic):
- A shortened form of "it would," used primarily in older literary works, poetry, or dialectal speech to represent a casual or rapid pronunciation.
Usage Examples
- (It would be a pity to miss the event.)
- (She said it would rain before midday.)
- (It would appear that he has changed his decision.)
Advanced Usage
In poetic meter: Used to maintain a specific syllable count or rhythm.
- 'Twould ring the bells of Heaven / The wildest peal for years (from a poem by Emily Dickinson, where "'twould" fits the iambic meter).
In historical dialogue: Often appears in novels or plays set in earlier centuries to evoke an antiquated tone.
- 'Twould be folly to trust the stranger, said the old man. (It would be foolish to trust the stranger.)
Variants and Related Words
'twas (contraction): shortened form of "it was."
- 'Twas the night before Christmas. (It was the night before Christmas.)
'twill (contraction): shortened form of "it will."
- 'Twill be a long journey. (It will be a long journey.)
'tis (contraction): shortened form of "it is."
- 'Tis a fine day. (It is a fine day.)
Synonyms
- It would (full form): the complete, unshortened expression.
- Would (in certain contexts): can sometimes substitute when the subject is clear, but rarely in modern usage.
Related Idioms
'Twould be a sin: an old-fashioned expression meaning "it would be morally wrong."
- 'Twould be a sin to waste such good food. (It would be wrong to throw away such fine food.)
'Twould serve you right: an archaic phrase meaning "it would be a deserved consequence."
- If you lost your money, 'twould serve you right for being careless. (It would be a fitting punishment for your carelessness.)