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Anonymous Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

are born vs. were born

A. You are born to be a star.
B. You were born to be a star.

1.  Which of the above is correct?  Before, I was confident that "were born" was the correct answer since it is definitely a past event.  However, I watched a TV show lately and the judge said "You are born to be a star.".  Now, I am confused which one is correct or if both are acceptable.

2.  If both are OK, what is the difference in meaning?

Please advise.  Thank you.
  

Top answer

The judge misspoke.

— Enoon

  • The judge misspoke.
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7 Answers
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The judge misspoke.
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Yes, the tense is wrong. He probably meant something along the lines of You are destined to be a star.
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Thank you.
So the correct version is "You were born to be a star".

I think I misheard him. He probably said "You're born to be a star." His "you're" is probably a contraction for "you were". Would you agree?
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AnonymousI think I misheard him. He probably said "You're born to be a star." His "you're" is probably a contraction for "you were". Would you agree?
It's possible, though you were is rarely contracted. He might have just spoken fast.
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Thank you, again, for your answer. Great help! Emotion: smile
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He might also have been trying to say, "You are a born star."
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That could be what he was thinking. Thank you again, enoon, for your help.
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