Language Research

should · modal verb

/ʃʊd/Full view

should (ADVICE)

A2 used to give advice

Dictionary examples:

I think you should see a doctor.

If you're annoyed with him, you should tell him.

You should change trains at Peterborough if you're going to Newcastle.

Learner example:

You should wear old clothes because we will get dirty. (Key English Test; A2; German)

should (BEST)

B1 used to say or ask what is the correct or best thing to do

Dictionary examples:

"Should I apologize to him?"

Where should we meet tonight?

There should be an investigation into the cause of the disaster.

I should have written to her but I haven't had any time.

It's getting cold in here. Should I turn the heat up?

Learner example:

Should I call the police? (Preliminary English Test; B1; Portuguese)

should (PROBABLE)

B1 used to say that you expect something to be true or that you expect something to happen

Dictionary examples:

My dry cleaning should be ready this afternoon.

If you follow these directions, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding our house.

I wonder what's happened to Annie. She should be here by now.

That should be enough food for five people.

Learner example:

I have invite[d] all his friends, [so] we should be 28 people. (Preliminary English Test; B1; French)

why should/shouldn't...?

B2 used to ask or give the reason for something, especially when you are surprised or angry about it

Dictionary examples:

He wants me to give him my old car, but why should I?

Why shouldn't she get a new car if she wants one?

Learner example:

And personally I say "why should I read something in a book which I can watch on TV?" (First Certificate in English; B2; Greek)