Should

Definition

The term "should" describes a modal verb used to express obligation, advice, expectation, or conditionality.

Parts of Speech

• Modal Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃʊd/
• Respelling: shood

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃʊd/
• Respelling: shood

Etymology

The word "should" originates from Old English "sceolde," the past tense of "sceal," meaning "shall" or "must." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*skuldaną," which connotes obligation or moral duty, and has retained its modal verb function in Modern English.

Derivatives

• Should’ve (contraction of "should have")
• Shouldn't (contraction of "should not")
• Shoulding (rare, gerund form)
• Reshould (rare, verb form)
• Over-should (rare, verb form)

Synonyms

• Ought to
• Must
• Shall

Antonyms

• Shouldn’t
• None
• None

Usage

The term "should" is widely used in English to provide recommendations, express conditionality, or indicate moral obligation. For example, "You should finish your homework before going out" or "If it rains, we should cancel the picnic."

Related Terms

• Must: Indicates a stronger necessity or obligation.
• Ought: A synonym for "should" with slightly more formal connotations.
• Shall: Often used in legal or formal contexts to denote future intention or obligation.

Detailed Definitions

Modal Verb

• Expressing obligation or duty: Indicates what is recommended or required.
  • Example: "Students should respect their teachers."
• Giving advice or suggestions: Used to recommend a course of action.
  • Example: "You should try the new restaurant downtown."
• Expressing expectation or probability: Indicates what is likely or expected.
  • Example: "The train should arrive on time."
• Expressing conditionality: Indicates potential outcomes or conditions.
  • Example: "If he calls, you should answer."