Would is not just a conditional form
At C1 level, would expresses habit, tentativeness, hypotheticality, politeness, volition, narrative projection, and reported stance. This lesson focuses on meaning and discourse control, not memorization.
1. Would for past habit (repeated actions)
Here, would marks repeated, characteristic actions in the past.
It does not normally describe states.
Natural
When I worked in Toronto, I would take the Lakeshore train every morning.
Problematic
When I was younger, I would know all my neighbours.
Know is a state → use “used to know” or simple past.
Exam payoff
Accurate use of would signals control of time reference and aspect — a key marker of high-level writing and speaking in IELTS & CELPIP.
2. Tentative or softened assertion
In advanced discourse, would allows speakers and writers to soften claims, signal politeness, and manage stance.