in the past

Question

Let's say, last week, my company laid off 5000 people from its workforce of 20,000 employees. Are the following correct?

In the past, we had 20,000 employees.
Last time, we had 20,000 employees.
We used to have 20,000 employees.

Is there any difference between them?
Thanks.

RayH · Accepted Answer

New2grammarIn the past, we had 20,000 employees.

OK. At some undetermined time in the past. The implication is that now we don't have 20,000 employees.

New2grammarLast time, we had 20,000 employees.

This is unclear. What "last time"? The last time there was a layoff? The last time I worked here? The last time there was a new moon?

New2grammarWe used to have 20,000 employees.

This is what the vast majority of people would say.

Note that none of these says anything about when the company had 20,000 employees or when the layoff was.

New2grammar · Answer

Thanks, RayH. Great explanation! Crystal clear.

Yoong Liat · Answer

New2grammarLast time, we had 20,000 employees.

'Last time' refers to the last occasion. The last time I saw you, you were fat. Now you are slim.

Formerly, we had 20,000 employees.

in the past

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