https://7esl.com/would-should-could/
Key Takeaways
- “Would” is used for hypotheticals and future possibilities that may not occur.
- “Should” implies advice, expectation, or probability.
- “Could” expresses past ability or present possibility.
Home » Knowledge Base » Grammar » Verbs » Would, Should, and Could: How to Use T...
Would, Should, and Could: How to Use Them Correctly
Last updated on June 18, 2024 by Isabella Claire
Contents
Would, Should, and Could: Understanding the Basics
- Key Takeaways
- Would: Definitions and Usages
- Should: Definitions and Usages
- Could: Definitions and Usages
- Examples in Sentences
- Examples of “Would” in Sentences
- Examples of “Should” in Sentences
- Examples of “Could” in Sentences
- Practice and Application
- Frequently Asked Questions
Helping verbs, also known as auxiliary verbs, are used to extend the main verb’s meaning in a sentence. These action words help in expressing the main verb’s tense and mood. However, if incorrectly used, it might undermine the purpose of having it in the sentence. Therefore, it is essential to know how helping verbs should be used appropriately in a text. Three of the most commonly used helping verbs are ‘would,’ ‘should,’ and ‘could’. They sound almost the same and have the same tense, but those three modal auxiliaries don’t mean the same thing. In this article, we shall tackle how to use the said verbs.
Would, Should, and Could: Understanding the Basics
-
To make polite requests or offers: “Would you like some coffee?”
To describe a future event from a past perspective: “We knew it would rain today.”
In conditional sentences: “I would travel more if I had the money.”
In what situations should ‘should’ be used?
Should apply when: -
Giving advice: “You should check your answers before submitting the test.”
-
Talking about expectations: “They should arrive by now.”
-
Expressing an obligation: “You should wear a seatbelt when driving.”
-
Remember, while these auxiliary verbs enhance our sentences, each carries its nuances and rules of application. Here are examples to show the correct usage:
Could: We could go to the park tomorrow if the weather is nice.
Would: We would love to join you for dinner next Friday.
Should: We should always recycle to help the environment.
Should: Definitions and Usages
The verb ‘should,’ as the past tense of ‘shall,’ is generally used to give advice, talk about an expectation, or obligate someone. In its obligatory sense, it can be used as an alternative for ‘must.’ The negative form of ‘should’ is ‘should not’ or ‘shouldn’t.’ To further explain how ‘should’ is used, feel free to go over the examples below.
-
In giving advice:
1.You should try to think outside the box.
2.We should let the adults decide.
3.Jenny should already get a new pair of eyeglasses. -
In expressing an expectation:
1.The teacher should be here soon.
2.Let's invite Jake. His class should be done by now.
3.The band has so many fans.
4.Their concert tickets should be sold out instantly. -
In relaying an obligation:
1.You should finish that by tomorrow.
2.Motorcycle drivers should always wear their helmets.
3.Citizens should follow the law.
About Latest Posts
Isabella Claire
At 7ESL, we empower English learners with advanced AI technology. Our innovative tools and resources help users speak fluently and improve their writing skills, supporting learners at every level in mastering English.