Modal Verbs for Advice (should, ought to, had better)

In English, we use modal verbs like should, ought to, and had better to give advice or recommendations. These modals are very similar, but they are used slightly differently depending on the level of urgency or the situation.

Should

Should is the most common and neutral way to give advice. It is used in everyday situations and expresses what is right, helpful, or recommended.

• You should eat more vegetables.
• He should call his parents more often.

Ought to

Ought to has the same meaning as should, but is a little more formal. It's less commonly used in conversation but still correct.

• You ought to get more sleep.
• We ought to leave soon or we’ll miss the train.

Had better

Had better is stronger than should or ought to. It is used when there will be a bad result or consequence if the advice is not followed.

• You had better take an umbrella — it looks like rain.
• She had better not forget her passport!