LIA Semarang Candi

Grammar Lesson: Using "should" or "shouldn't"

"Should" or "Shouldn't" - Use

• We use should and shouldn't to give advice or to talk about what we think is right or wrong.
• You should means something like I think it is a good idea for you to do it.
• You shouldn't means something like I think it is a bad idea for you to do it.
• Should is used to express the opinion of a speaker and often follows I think or I don't think.
  

For example:

1. You look tired. I think you should take a few days off.
2.  Alice works very long hours. She should to talk to her boss.

      A: I have an English test tomorrow.
      B: I shouldn't worry if I were you. You have worked really hard.
     
      A: I never have enough money.
      B: I don't think you should go out so much.

"Should" or "Shouldn't" - Quick Grammar Note

To give advice to someone you can also say:

• I should do it if I were you.
• I shouldn't be so rude, if I were you.

When you regret not doing something in the past, you can say:

• I shouldn't have spoken to him like that.
• I should have apologized earlier. 

"Should" or "Shouldn't" - Practice

Click the button for practice!