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Should / Had Better

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Should is a modal verb that has more than one meaning. The obvious meaning is that we use it to give advice (eg. You should quit smoking), but it could also mean that you expect something to happen in the future (eg. John called and told me he’s on his way. He should be here soon). The past tense of should is should have + PP.

Had better is similar to should, but it’s used for more urgent advice with bad consequences if you don’t follow it (eg. You had better quit smoking or you’ll die).

Lesson by Sebastian, teacher at EC Cape Town English school

Now complete these sentences with the correct words:

  • 1. You ___ not be late again or you'll lose your job.




  • 2. You ___ start waking up earlier.




  • 3. Why are you so late?! You ___ arrived sooner.




  • 4. John is late again, he ___ gotten here 30 minutes ago




  • 5. The movie's going to start soon, we ___ leave soon or we’ll miss it.




  • 6. I saw a really great action movie last night, you ___ see it.




  • 7. I studied hard for the test this week, I ___ be able to pass it.




  • 8. Dad said he’d punish you if he caught you drunk again. You ___ not do it again.