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Using 'Had Better' in English

We use 'had better' in English in combination with an infinitive without 'to' when giving advice. Although 'had' is the past form of 'have', we use 'had better' when giving advice about the present or

We use 'had better' in English in combination with an infinitive without 'to', when giving advice. Although 'had' is the past form of 'have', we use 'had better' when giving advice about the present or future.

  • You'd better tell her everything.
  • I'd better get back to work.
  • We'd better meet early.

The negative form is 'had better not'.

  • You'd better not say anything.
  • I'd better not come.
  • We'd better not miss the start of his presentation.

When we use 'had better' in English to give advice about specific situations, we can also use 'should'. If we are not talking about a specific situation, but in general, it is mandatory to use 'should'.

  • You shouldn't say anything.
  • I should get back to work.
  • We should meet early.

When we use 'had better' in English, however, there is a presumption that if the advice is not followed, something bad will happen.

  • You'd better do what I say or else you will get into trouble.
  • I'd better get back to work or my boss will be angry with me.
  • We'd better get to the airport by five or else we may miss the flight.

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