Used without a timeA concept which is related to our perception of reality; that part of existence which is measured in seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, etc. expressionA word or group of words used in a particular situation. E.g.: Good morning, at six, on the sofa the past continuous can express developing stateA condition that exists at a particular time. E.g.: I am sick. This melon weighs two kilos. s:

It was getting darker and darker.
Our hopes were fading.

Past continuous for actions happening over a period of time in the past
Past continuous Past continuous for annoying past habits