DictionaryAI

should

SHUUD/ʃʊd/

Formsshould, shoulding, shoulded

9 meanings of should

Practice

  1. 1
    advice (ought to)verbauxiliarymodal
    Used to say or ask what is right or best to do, or what was right to do.

    Think of it like a signpost: it points to the better road but does not force you down it.

    You should see a doctor about that cough.

    We should leave before the traffic builds up.

    UsageSay you should go (not incorrect: should to go). Looking back: you should have gone.

    Similarought to

    Note
  2. 2
    likelyverbauxiliarymodal
    Used to say you expect something is true or will happen.

    They left an hour ago, so they should be home soon.

    The bus should come in about ten minutes.

    Similarought to

    Note
  3. 3
    verbauxiliarymodalsubjunctive
    Used for something that might happen, after words like insist or suggest, and after words of surprise or regret.

    Should you have any questions, please ask at the front desk.

    If I should be late, start without me.

    UsageShould you need help means if you need help.

    Note

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of should apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

This is the old past tense of the word that became "shall." It comes from Old English and is related to German "sollte."

Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 2 facts