You should drink more water.
- Language
- English
- Level
- A2
- Unit
- Modal verbs and imperatives
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
‘Should’ and ‘shouldn’t’ are modal verbs in English. We use them to give advice or say what is the right or wrong thing to do.
When to use it
Use ‘should’ to give advice, suggestions, or talk about what is a good idea. Use ‘shouldn’t’ to say something is not a good idea or to give negative advice.
Key forms
- should + base verb (e.g., should go)
- shouldn't + base verb (e.g., shouldn't eat)
Examples
He shouldn’t be late for class.
Should I call her now?
We should study for the test.
You shouldn’t eat too much sugar.
Tips
- Use the base form of the verb after ‘should’ or ‘shouldn’t’ (e.g., should go, shouldn’t eat).
- Don’t add ‘to’ after ‘should’ (say ‘should go’, not ‘should to go’).
- To make a question, put ‘should’ at the start: ‘Should I help you?’