Is it better ought to or had?

Should and ought to have the same meaning, although ought to is much more formal and is not commonly used in spoken English. Supposed to refers to what other people think is right, while should expresses what you think is right. Had better expresses the idea that something bad will happen if you don’t do what I say.

How do you use ought to in a sentence?

We use ought to when talking about things which are desired or ideal:

  1. They ought to have more parks in the city centre.
  2. We ought to eat lots of fruit and vegetables every day.
  3. We ought to have locked the gate. Then the dog wouldn’t have got out.
  4. I often think that I ought to have studied medicine not pharmacy.

Would better or had better?

We use had better to refer to the present or the future, to talk about actions we think people should do or which are desirable in a specific situation. The verb form is always had, not have. We normally shorten it to ‘d better in informal situations.

How do you use had better?

Had better is a strong expression. We use it if we think there will be negative results if someone does not do what is desired or suggested: She’d better get here soon or she’ll miss the opening ceremony.

How do you use had better in a sentence?

I had better (‘it would be a good idea if I’, ‘it would be better for me to’) is used as a modal auxiliary verb: I had (or I’d) better sleep now. It would be a good idea for me to sleep now. You’d better discuss this issue with Bruno.

Had better or would rather?

We don’t use had better when we talk about preferences. We use would rather or would prefer.

Had better VS should?

The past tense of should is should have + past participle. Had better is similar, but it’s used for more urgent advice with bad consequences if you don’t follow it (eg. You had better quit smoking or you’ll die).

Should ought to examples?

He should stop smoking. OR He ought to stop smoking. She should find a better job. OR She ought to find a better job.