content_image/861615.jpg content_image/861614.jpg content_image/861613.jpg
## Use of the imperfect 

5 The imperfect is used for descriptions of situations in the past, when it is not necessary (or important) to say how long an action lasted. This generally happens with verbs like essere , sembrare  and avere , and with verbs expressing will, desire or intention, possibility or ability; but it can happen with other verbs as well: 

<img src='content_image/861615.jpg'>

6 The imperfect is also used to express actions which were habitual or hap- pened repeatedly in the past: 

<img src='content_image/861614.jpg'>

7 Since the imperfect is used when it is not relevant how long the action lasted, it is not used when it is stated how many times, or for how long, something happened: 

<img src='content_image/861613.jpg'>

