Anglų kalbos kursas: Following your dreams

SHOULD / SHOULDN’T – expressing your opinion (criticism)

We use should when we think something is a good idea, but the person is not doing it.

We use shouldn’t when we think something is a bad idea, but the person is doing it.

It’s your opinion, so you are criticising their choice.

Examples:

• You should eat more vegetables. → You don’t eat them, but it’s a good idea.
• He shouldn’t spend so much money. → He spends a lot, and that’s a bad idea.

So, should is not just advice – it’s a soft criticism of what someone is doing or not doing.

HAD BETTER / HAD BETTER NOT – real advice for someone’s benefit

We use had better when we really care about the person’s well-being or situation.

There’s often a clear reason or even a consequence if they don’t follow the advice.

You give this advice because it’s important – not just your opinion.

Examples:

You had better take a break – you look exhausted.

• She had better not be late – the boss will be angry.
• You’d better take a coat, or you’ll freeze.

The short form is 'd better, e.g. I'd better, I'd better not.