What is difference between shall and should
by Yogi P - October 20, 2023
Difference between shall and should
Confusion between two words is common in English language. The words “shall” and “should” are two such commonly confused words, but despite their similarity, they have quite different meanings and usages.
Shall: Shall is used as a modal verb and implies obligation, determination, or predictability. It also expresses a promise or determination to do something, as a request or suggestion, and is usually used in an imperative or conditional sense.
- As a promise, wish, or command: “I shall do what I can to help.”
- Indicates a strong certainty: “This film shall bring about a revolution.”
- Expresses a request or recommendation: “You shall not miss this opportunity.
Should: On the other hand, should is an auxiliary verb that is used to express an opinion, advice, or suggestion. It’s often used to express an opinion on an obligation, a necessity, or proposed course of action.
- Expresses an obligation or duty: “I should do my homework.”
- Indicates a requirement: “You should arrive at least 15 minutes before the show.”
- Denotes a recommendation or suggestion: “You should try the new Italian restaurant.
Difference between shall and should:
| Word | Shall | Should |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Obligation, determination, or predictability | Opinion, advice, or suggestion |
| Usage | In an imperative or conditional sense | Denoting an opinion, necessity, or proposed course of action |
| Examples | You shall not miss this opportunity. | You should try the new Italian restaurant. |
To further enhance understanding, you can practice using these words in context by reading pieces of literature or other texts that utilize them. Whenever you come across a sentence with shall or should, carefully analyze it to identify how these words are used.
Quick overview of difference between “shall” and “should”:
| Aspect | Shall | Should |
|---|---|---|
| Verb Mood | Modal verb | Modal verb |
| Meaning | Indicates a future action or event in a formal or legal context, a formal recommendation, or obligation | Indicates advice, recommendation, or a suggestion; less formal and used in everyday language |
| Usage | Traditionally used for formal expressions, obligations, or future actions (often with “I” and “we”) | Commonly used for advice, recommendations, or expressing preference (applies to all subjects) |
| Politeness | Traditionally used to make questions, offers, or polite requests | Used for polite suggestions or advice but can also be used in less formal contexts |
| Example | I shall meet you at 2 PM. | You should study for the exam. |
| Formality | More formal, especially in legal and formal contexts | Less formal, suitable for everyday conversation |
| Synonyms | Will, intend, propose, be going to | Ought to, recommend, advise, suggest |
| Negation | Shall not (shan’t) | Should not (shouldn’t) |
Conclusion
To sum up, while both words may appear similar in terms of in usage, there is a significant difference between them. Understanding proper use of these two words is important so you can communicate effectively in the English language.
