English UsageComparison guide
Swore vs. Sworn
Use “swore” for the simple past of “swear” and “sworn” as the past participle, especially after have/has/had. The guide distinguishes the finite past form from the participle in standard verb constructions.
Use “swore” for the simple past of “swear” and “sworn” as the past participle, especially after have/has/had.
Key details
Confusion Familyirregular verb forms
Rule Familyverb forms
Termsswore, sworn
Verb Formsswear, swore, sworn
Choose the right form
| Sentence need | Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| simple past | swore | The sentence uses swore as a simple-past form of “swear.” |
| past participle after have/has/had | sworn | The sentence uses sworn after an auxiliary. |
Further guidance
Core difference
“Swore” is the simple-past form of “swear”; “sworn” is the past participle used in perfect constructions and other participial uses.
Fast Test
If the sentence needs a standalone finite past-tense verb, use “swore.” If have, has, or had governs the verb form, use “sworn.”
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- swear — Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries · Swear to do for a serious promise; separate intransitive swearing sense