Should / Shouldn't — advice and recommendations
Use should to give or ask for advice, make a recommendation, or say what is right or sensible.
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| should + bare infinitive | You should drink more water. · We should leave now. |
| shouldn't + bare infinitive | You shouldn't eat before swimming. · He shouldn't work so hard. |
| Should + subject + verb? | Should I call a doctor? · What should I wear? |
Should ≠ Must:
"Should" is advice — it's a good idea but you have a choice. "Must" is an obligation — you have no choice. "You should see a doctor." (advice) vs "You must wear a seatbelt." (law/obligation)
Common uses:
Advice: "You should try this restaurant — the food is amazing!"
Recommendation: "We should book tickets in advance."
Criticism: "You shouldn't leave your bag on the floor."
Asking for advice: "Should I take the job or not?"
Advice: "You should try this restaurant — the food is amazing!"
Recommendation: "We should book tickets in advance."
Criticism: "You shouldn't leave your bag on the floor."
Asking for advice: "Should I take the job or not?"
Might / May — possibility
Use might or may to talk about something that is possible — you are not sure if it will happen.
| Verb | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| might | possible — about 50% or less sure | It might rain tonight. · I might go to the party. |
| may | possible — slightly more formal than might | She may be late. · There may be delays. |
| might not | possible not — the negative | He might not come. · I might not have time. |
Might vs Will:
"It will rain." = certain / predicted. "It might rain." = possible, not sure. Use "might" when you are uncertain. Use "will" when you are confident.
Exercises
Choose the correct modal.
1. You look tired. You ___ go to bed earlier.
2. I'm not sure what I'm doing this weekend. I ___ visit my grandmother.
3. You ___ eat so much junk food. It's bad for you.
4. Take an umbrella — it ___ rain later.
5. ___ I call the restaurant and book a table in advance?