should
Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary
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[edit] English
[edit] Etymology
Old English sceolde, preterite form of sculan (“‘owe", "be obliged’”).
[edit] Pronunciation
[edit] 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.
[edit] 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.
[edit] Synonyms
- (obligation): ought
[edit] Antonyms
[edit] Related terms
[edit] See also
Auxiliary verb on Wikipedia.Wikipedia:Auxiliary verb- Modal verb on Wikipedia.Wikipedia:Modal verb
- Shall and will on Wikipedia.Wikipedia:Shall and will
[edit] Translations
The speaker intends for the subject to execute the sentence predicate
The subject of the sentence is likely to execute the sentence predicate
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If; in case of
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