The meaning of SHOULD is —used in auxiliary function to express condition —usually used with if. How to use should in a sentence.

SHOULD definition: 1. used to say or ask what is the correct or best thing to do: 2. used to show when something is…. Learn more.

The main verb can never be the to-infinitive. We cannot say: He should to go. There is no short form for should, but we can shorten the negative should not to shouldn't.

(Grammar) the past tense of shall: used as an auxiliary verb to indicate that an action is considered by the speaker to be obligatory (you should go) or to form the subjunctive mood with I or we (I should …

Master the word "SHOULD" in English: definitions, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one complete resource.

Find out how to use the modal verb 'should'. We'll also study the question form and the negative.

Jan 17, 2026 · should (third-person singular simple present shoulds, present participle shoulding, simple past and past participle shoulded) To make a statement of what ought to be true, as opposed to reality.

SHOULD definition: must; ought (used to indicate duty, propriety, or expediency). See examples of should used in a sentence.

We use the full form should not in formal contexts or when we want to emphasis something: We should not forget those who have given their lives in the defence of freedom.

You should [= ought to] get some rest. They should be punished. We should leave a few minutes early to make sure we get there on time.