This question focuses on the basic concept of verb tenses, specifically the past tense. * **Core concept:** The past tense signifies an action or state that occurred prior to the current time. * **Correct Answer (C):** Option C is the accurate definition of the past tense. It describes an action completed or a state existing before now. * **Option A:** This refers to the present tense, which expresses an action happening now. * **Option B:** This is the function of the future tense, indicating actions that will take place later. * **Option D:** This describes a habitual action, which could be expressed with the simple present tense or past tense with context. * **Key Takeaway:** The past tense always relates to actions or states that have been completed before the present time.