Learn how to use the English verbs should, must, and ought to. Get clear, simple grammar advice from expert English teachers at the British Council. The meaning of SHOULD is —used in auxiliary function to express condition —usually used with if. How to use should in a sentence. This article explains the use of should in sentences in English grammar. It also describes the use of should, use of shall, and would and use of ‘should have’. This comprehensive English grammar lesson teaches you ALL the different uses of the modal verb SHOULD with crystal-clear explanations, hundreds of examples, and practical exercises! should (third-person singular simple present should, no present participle, no simple past or past participle) (modal, auxiliary, defective) Ought to; indicating opinion, advice, or instruction, about what is required or desirable. We use the full form should not in formal contexts or when we want to emphasis something: We should not forget those who have given their lives in the defence of freedom. Should is a modal verb, and all modal verbs are followed by an infinitive (without to). You should to listen to me. You should listen to me. The negative form of should is should not or shouldn’t. You should not be here. = You shouldn’t be here. To ask questions, we use should + subject + infinitive. We don’t use the verb do to ask questions. SHOULD definition: must; ought (used to indicate duty, propriety, or expediency). See examples of should used in a sentence. Ever wondered how to use should correctly in your sentences? You're not alone. Many learners and even experienced writers sometimes find this little word tricky to master. But don’t worry—I’m here to give you the most accurate and practical guidance on using should confidently and correctly. Whether you're writing an essay, composing a formal email, or just speaking naturally. SHOULD definition: 1. used to say or ask what is the correct or best thing to do: 2. used to show when something is…. Learn more.