1. past tense of ‘be’ used with plural subjects and with ‘you’
Usage: past tense form
2. subjunctive form of ‘be’ used in hypothetical or contrary-to-fact situations
Usage: subjunctive mood

Examples

• They were happy to see us.
• You were right about the weather.
• The children were playing in the park.
• If I were you, I would apologize.
• She acted as if she were the boss.
• I wish I were taller.
• Were you at the meeting yesterday?