Understanding the Differences Between “Fed” and “Feed”: A Guide for English Learners

Fed vs. Feed

History of the Words

The word “feed” comes from Old English “fēdan,” which means to give food to someone or something. It is a regular verb, which means it follows the usual pattern when changing to past forms.

“Fed” is the past tense and past participle form of “feed.” When we talk about feeding in the past, we use “fed.”

How to Use the Words

“Feed” is used when you are giving food to someone or something now or in the future.

“Fed” is used when you gave food in the past.

Examples of Using “Feed”

• I feed the birds every morning.
• You should feed the dog twice a day.
• She will feed the fish later.
• Do you feed your cat canned food or dry food?
• Please feed the baby before he gets cranky.

Examples of Using “Fed”

• I fed the birds yesterday.
• We fed the animals at the zoo last weekend.
• She fed the baby an hour ago.
• He fed the cat and then went to bed.
• The farmer fed the cows early in the morning.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, “feed” is for now or the future. Think of present or later actions. “Fed” is for things that happened before, in the past.

Summary of Usage

“Feed” means giving food and is used for present and future actions. “Fed” is the past tense form and is used when talking about feeding that happened before now. Use “feed” for now and “fed” for then.