simple past

[sairashab]

other than using simple past to describe a past event, what are the other ways can it be used in? like when we are asking someone if they need something else or not we say did you need anything else? what else?

[Tdol]

If you are asking about a current need, you would use the present. The past is used for present and future time in second conditionals.

[sairashab]

I think I haven't explained it well. I meant when we are talking to custmers we say is that gonna be it for today? or Did you need anything else today? correct.

[Tdol]

If you have served them and think there's a good chance that they have completed their purchases, then the past is OK. I'd use something like 'Is that all for today?', though.

[sairashab]

hmmm.... okay thank you. actually, i heard people say that did you need anything else today? or in a retail they ask did you need a gift receipt for this? I don't know but saying do you need a gift receipt sounds kinda rude and harsh, doesn't it? anyways thanks for your reply.