Should and had better – 4

had better = it is advisable to (the meaning is present or future, not past!)
had better is similar to should, but not exactly the same

should is used in all types of situation to give an opinion or advice. It means something is a good thing to do.

• People with disabilities should have better travel facilities.
• Everyone should eat more fruit and vegetables.
• "The RSC is coming to the Theatre Royal soon – we should try and get tickets." (ie it would be nice to go and see a play….)

had better is used for a particular situation, not in general

• "Is that really the time? I’d better go."
• "It’s raining – you’d better take an umbrella"
• "The restaurants around there are expensive – we had better pack a picnic."

had better is used to advise someone to do something, perhaps warning of a problem or danger:

• "You’d better set off early, so you’re not late for your interview."
• "He had better be careful, talking to his boss like that."

Negative

• "She’d better not marry him, if that’s his attitude."
• They had better not go away until they’ve found a flat to move into.

Sometimes there is very little difference between should and had better!

• I should catch the next bus.
• I’d better catch the next bus.

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