Updated on October 22, 2025

Modal Verb Should

Should is a modal verb. We use should to give advice, make recommendations, or say what is right or a good idea to do. It is not as strong as must or have to. It shows what we think is the best thing to do, but it’s not an order.

Table of Contents

Exercises

Explanation

Should is used for

Giving Advice

Use should to tell someone what you think is a good idea.

You should drink more water.
He should study harder for the test.
They should visit their parents more often.

Making Suggestions

Use should when you want to give someone a suggestion.


We should go to the beach this weekend.
You should try that new restaurant—it’s great!
She should wear a jacket. It’s cold outside.

Saying What’s Right or Expected

Use should when you talk about something that is correct or expected to happen.

The train should arrive at 9 o’clock.
People should be polite to each other.
You should always tell the truth.

Negative Form

Form

Contraction

Example

should not

shouldn’t

You shouldn’t eat so much sugar.

He shouldn’t talk during the movie.
You shouldn’t go out if you’re sick.

Questions with “Should”

We use should in questions to ask for advice or opinion.

Should I call her now or later?
What should we do tonight?
Should he tell his boss the truth?

Structure

Sentence Type

Structure

Example

Affirmative

Subject + should + verb

You should rest.

Negative

Subject + shouldn’t + verb

You shouldn’t be late.

Question

Should + subject + verb?

Should I go now?

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