Ch 5
Modals — Advice
Should, ought to, had better for giving and receiving advice.
Advice is what you think is a good idea for someone. It is not a rule.
should
You should drink more water.
ought to
You ought to see a doctor. (= should, a little more formal)
had better
You'd better leave now or you'll miss the train. (strong — or something bad happens)
If I were you…
If I were you, I'd call her.
subject + should / shouldn't + base verb
You should try the pizza here — it's great.
A recommendation.
You shouldn't stay up so late before an exam.
Advice against.
Should I bring anything to the party?
Asking for advice.
subject + had better ('d better) + base verb
It's going to rain. We'd better take umbrellas.
If not, we will get wet.
You'd better not be late — the coach leaves at 8.
Negative: had better not.
had better is about now or the future, not the past, even though it uses had.
Why don't you…?
Why don't you ask your brother for help?
How about + -ing?
How about going by bus?
You could…
You could try a different app. (a possible idea)
It's a good idea to…
It's a good idea to book tickets early.
You should to see a doctor.
→
You should see a doctor.
no to after should
You don't should eat so much sugar.
→
You shouldn't eat so much sugar.
negative: shouldn't, not don't should
You had better to go home.
→
You'd better go home.
had better + base verb, no to
You ought see the film.
→
You ought to see the film.
ought always takes to
Give advice — use a different form each time.
1
A friend can't sleep at night. What should they do?
2
Someone is visiting your city for the first time. Give three tips.
3
Your friend has a test tomorrow and hasn't studied. Use had better.
4
Ask your teacher for advice: Should I…?
Recap
should / ought to
advice — a good idea
You should rest.
shouldn't
advice against
You shouldn't worry.
had better
strong advice + warning
You'd better hurry.
Suggestions
Why don't you…? · How about + -ing?
How about walking?