Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English - would

~ v (modal v) 1 used instead of `will' to describe what someone has said, asked etc  (They said they would meet us at 10.30 at the station.) 2 used instead of `will' with a past tense v or to show what is likely or possible  (What would you do if you won a million pounds? | He said there had been a serious accident, but wouldn't give any details.) 3 used to describe what someone used to do a lot or what used to happen a lot  (When we worked in the same office, we would often have coffee together.) 4 used to show disapproval when talking about someone's annoying habits or behaviour  (You would go and spoil it, wouldn't you!) 5 would rather used to say that you would prefer to do or have one thing rather than another thing  (Which would you rather do, go to the cinema or go for a meal?) 6 would you...? a) used to express a polite request  (Would you shut the window please?) b) used to express a polite offer or invitation  (Would you like to have a meal with us tomorrow evening?) 7 I would... spoken used to tell someone what you think they should do in a particular situation  (I would ring Joe and explain that you can't see him tomorrow.) 8 used before verbs that express what you think, feel, or suppose, to make your opinion or feeling less definite  (I would imagine that the kids will stay with their grandparents.) 9 would that... literary used to express a strong wish or desire  (Would that we had seen her before she died.)