Hear it pronouncedshould
Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary
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Contents |
[ English
| Rank of this word in the English language, from analyzing texts from Project Gutenberg. | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| now | then | A | #80: should | can | made | did |
[ Etymology
Old English sceolde, preterite form of sculan.
[ Pronunciation
[ Verb
should (simple past of shall)
- (auxiliary) ought (to be or do something); Indicates that the subject of the sentence has some obligation to execute the sentence predicate.
- You should brush your teeth every day.
- (auxiliary) will likely (become or do something) Indicates that the subject of the sentence is likely to execute the sentence predicate.
- You should be warm enough with that coat.
- (auxiliary, in a subordinate clause) If; in case of; Indicates that its subordinate clause refers to a hypothetical condition for the event expressed by main clause.
- Should you need extra blankets, you’ll find them in the closet.
[ Usage notes
- (obligation): Contrast with stronger auxiliary verb must, which indicates that the subject is required to execute the predicate.
- (likely): Contrast with stronger auxiliary verb must, which indicates that the subject certainly will execute the predicate.
- See the usage notes at shall.
[ Synonyms
- (obligation): ought
[ Antonyms
[ Related terms
[ Translations
The speaker intends for the subject to execute the sentence predicate
The subject of the sentence is likely to execute the sentence predicate
If; in case of
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