should

Definitions

1. verb

   The past form of shall, now used as its own verb.

   Examples

   • I told him that I should be busy tomorrow.
   • She said she should arrive by noon.
2. verb

   Used to say what is the right thing to do.

   Examples

   • You should never drink and drive.
   • You should always wear a seat belt.
3. verb

   Used to give advice or an opinion.

   Examples

   • You should see that film. I think you'll enjoy it.
   • Should we go and see the police, do you think?
4. verb

   Used with see or hear to show that something is surprising.

   Examples

   • You should see his new apartment. It's like a palace!
   • If you think her piano playing is bad, you should hear her sing!
5. verb

   Used in questions to ask what is right to do.

   Examples

   • What should I do?
   • Should we call ahead, or just show up?
6. verb

   Used to say that something is expected to be true.

   Examples

   • They should have finished by now.
   • My fruit trees should be in flower, but spring is cold.
7. verb

   Used to say that something will probably happen.

   Examples

   • They should have it finished by Friday.
   • The light should come on when you press this button.
8. verb

   Used in formal speech to talk about something that might happen.

   Examples

   • If I should be late, please go on without me.
   • Should you need extra blankets, you will find them in the closet.
   ≈were
9. verb

   Used in formal speech to say what would happen under a condition.

   Examples

   • If I had not been so tired, I should have laughed.
   • If you were here, I should be very happy.
10. verb

    Used to make a statement sound polite or less certain.

    Examples

    • I should imagine that they have arrived by now.
    • I should think you would want to apologize.