How Do You Spell SHOULD?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈʊd] (IPA)

The word "should" is spelled as /ʃʊd/. It is pronounced with the voiceless postalveolar fricative /ʃ/ followed by the short vowel sound /ʊ/ and the voiced dental plosive /d/. The spelling of this word is influenced by its Old English root word "sceolde". Although "should" is commonly misspelled with a double "l" (i.e. "shold"), it is important to use the correct spelling as it can affect the meaning and understanding of a sentence.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
Conjugate verb
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SHOULD Meaning and Definition

  1. Should is a modal verb used to indicate an obligation, duty, or moral requirement. It suggests a strong recommendation, advisability, or inherent desirability of a certain action or behavior. It conveys an expectation or an ideal course of action that is believed to be correct or appropriate in a given situation.

    Often used in the context of providing advice, making suggestions, or offering opinions, should implies a sense of duty or responsibility towards a specific action that may lead to a positive outcome. It implies a level of significance or importance attached to the recommended action, suggesting that it would be wise or right to follow it.

    "Should" is commonly employed to express standards, rules, or conventions, both socially and morally. It serves as a guide for making decisions or evaluating behaviors. Moreover, it acknowledges a certain level of expectation within a particular social, ethical, or professional context.

    By using "should," individuals or authorities express their belief in what is considered desirable, necessary, or obligatory. While it does not imply compulsion or insistence, it suggests a strong endorsement or endorsement comes from moral, ethical, or conventional perspectives.

    In summary, should is a modal verb that indicates obligation, duty, or moral requirement. It expresses adherence to a recommended or expected course of action and demonstrates the individual or collective belief in what is considered advisable, desirable, or appropriate in a given context.

  2. • As an auxiliary, should expresses a conditional present, a contingent future, and obligation or duty.
    • Of shall, which see.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for SHOULD *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SHOULD

Etymology of SHOULD

The word should originated from the Old English word sceolde, which is the past tense of sceal. Sceolde is derived from the Germanic word skal, meaning to owe or to be obliged. Over time, sceolde evolved into the modern English word should with its current meaning of indicating obligation, duty, or the proper course of action. The origins of sceal and skal can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word skulan, which also meant to owe or to be obligated.

Idioms with the word SHOULD

  • sb should be shot The idiom "sb should be shot" is an expression used to convey strong disapproval or outrage towards someone's actions, behavior, or decisions. It signifies extreme criticism or condemnation, suggesting that the person in question deserves severe punishment or consequences for their actions. However, it is important to note that this idiom is hyperbolic and not meant to be taken literally.
  • how should I know? The idiom "how should I know?" is a rhetorical question used to express ignorance or a lack of information about something. It is often used when someone is asked a question they cannot possibly have the answer to or when they are being sarcastic in response to being asked a question they believe the asker should already know the answer to.
  • I should think not/so (too)! The idiom "I should think not/so (too)!" is a phrase used to express strong disagreement or disbelief towards a statement or suggestion. It is a way to firmly reject or contradict something, emphasizing the speaker's conviction that the statement is incorrect or unacceptable.
  • I should be so lucky! The idiom "I should be so lucky!" is an expression used to convey a sense of disbelief or irony in response to a highly desirable or fortunate outcome. It is often used sarcastically to indicate that the speaker considers the possibility mentioned to be highly improbable or beyond their expectations.
  • you should get out more The idiom "you should get out more" is typically used to suggest that someone should engage in more social activities, explore new places, or spend less time at home. It often implies that the person being addressed is lacking in experiences or social interaction and would benefit from broadening their horizons.
  • You should be so lucky! The idiom "You should be so lucky!" is used sarcastically to express the belief that something desired or considered fortunate is unlikely to happen or is beyond the person's capabilities or deserving. It often implies that the person doesn't have a realistic chance or is not worthy of the desired outcome.
  • It's time we should be going. The idiom "It's time we should be going" refers to the notion that it is time to leave or depart from a place or situation. It is commonly used when signaling that the current activity or visit has come to an end and it is appropriate to leave.
  • as who should say The idiom "as who should say" means to express something indirectly or hesitantly, suggesting that one is trying to convey a particular meaning without stating it explicitly. This phrase is often used to indicate that someone is implying or insinuating something, rather than directly stating it.
  • (one) should be so lucky The idiom "(one) should be so lucky" is used to express skepticism or doubt about a suggestion, wish, or possibility. It implies that the suggested outcome or circumstance is highly desirable or fortunate but unlikely to happen or be granted to oneself. It often conveys a touch of bitterness or irony.
  • no one should be judge in his own cause The idiom "no one should be judge in his own cause" means that a person should not be allowed to make a decision or judgment about a matter in which they have a personal interest or stake. It emphasizes the importance of impartiality and objectivity when resolving disputes or making decisions, as self-interest can cloud judgment and lead to unfairness or bias.
  • I should cocoa! The idiom "I should cocoa!" is a British slang phrase that is used to express strong skepticism or disagreement with a statement or suggestion. It is often used sarcastically to imply that the speaker believes the statement or suggestion to be highly unlikely or false.
  • I should cocoa (or coco) The idiom "I should cocoa (or coco)" is an informal British expression that is used to indicate skepticism or disbelief towards a statement or suggestion. It is often used sarcastically to express doubt or question the truthfulness or likelihood of something.
  • I should hope not The idiom "I should hope not" is typically used when expressing disbelief, disagreement, or disapproval in response to a statement or suggestion. It signifies the speaker's strong disagreement and emphasizes that they strongly hold the opposite belief or expectation.
  • I should hope so The idiom "I should hope so" is a phrase used to express strong expectation, assurance, or agreement with a previous statement or action. It indicates that the speaker considers the outcome or result to be obvious or necessary.
  • I should hope so/not The idiom "I should hope so" is used to express strong agreement or expectation that something is logical, obvious, or necessary. It often implies that the speaker believes the statement or action being referred to should be considered normal or expected. Example: "You've studied for hours; you should do well on the test, I should hope so!" On the other hand, "I should hope not" is an idiomatic expression used to convey strong disagreement or the speaker's desire that something does not happen or is not true. It often implies a sense of concern, disbelief, or a negative assumption. Example: "He shouldn't be late again tonight, I should hope not. It's starting to become a problem."
  • you should talk!, at look who's talking! The idiom "you should talk!" or "look who's talking!" is used to sarcastically point out hypocrisy in someone's statement or behavior. It implies that the person criticizing or judging others is guilty of the same thing or lacks the credibility to make such a comment.
  • on no account must/should sb do sth The expression "on no account must/should someone do something" is used as a strong warning or prohibition against doing a particular action. It emphasizes that under no circumstances or in no situation should someone engage in the specified behavior.
  • no better than you should be The idiom "no better than you should be" is typically used to imply that someone's behavior or actions are improper, inappropriate, or immoral. It suggests that the person does not live up to the standards of decency or moral conduct that they should adhere to. It is often used to make a subtle judgment or criticism of someone's character or behavior.
  • you should know a man seven years before you stir his fire The idiom "you should know a man seven years before you stir his fire" suggests that it is important to really know and understand someone before provoking or arousing strong emotions or reactions in them. It implies that it takes time to develop a deep understanding of an individual's personality, desires, and boundaries, and only after this period should one engage in actions or discussions that could potentially elicit strong emotions or reactions from that person.
  • they should worry! The idiom "they should worry!" essentially means that the person being referred to should be concerned or fearful about the situation. It is often used to convey a sense of dismissiveness or lack of sympathy towards someone's troubles or worries.
  • should have stood in bed The definition of the idiom "should have stood in bed" is a humorous expression used to convey that someone's day or situation has been so unfortunate or disastrous that it would have been better if they had simply stayed in bed instead. It suggests that any actions taken or decisions made have resulted in a series of negative consequences.
  • if anything should happen The idiom "if anything should happen" is typically used to express a cautious or concerned outlook regarding potential unforeseen events or outcomes. It implies a sense of readiness or preparedness in case something unexpected occurs.
  • no better than (one) should be The idiom "no better than (one) should be" means that someone's behavior or actions are unacceptable or inappropriate considering their position, status, or responsibilities. It implies that the person is not living up to the expected standards or behaving in a manner that is morally right or socially acceptable.
  • He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon. The idiom "He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon" means that if someone chooses to associate or collaborate with evil or malicious individuals, they should be cautious and prepared for the potential harm or negative consequences that may arise from such a connection. It advises one to exercise caution and maintain a safe distance when dealing with untrustworthy or unsavory characters.
  • should have stood in bed, I The idiom "should have stood in bed" is an expression used to convey the notion that everything you do or attempt turns out to be a failure or has negative consequences. It suggests that, in hindsight, it would have been better to avoid taking any action at all. "I" is often added at the end of the phrase to emphasize a personal frustration or disappointment. Therefore, the complete phrase "should have stood in bed, I" implies regret over a series of unfortunate events or decisions.
  • children should be seen and not heard The idiom "children should be seen and not heard" is a traditional saying that suggests children should stay quiet and not interrupt or express their opinions in the presence of adults. It implies that children should be respectful, obedient, and not involve themselves in adult conversations or activities.
  • you should have seen/heard sth/sb The idiom "you should have seen/heard something/somebody" is used to express regret that someone missed witnessing or experiencing something remarkable, surprising, impressive, or entertaining. It implies that the person being addressed missed out on an extraordinary event or encounter.
  • the cobbler should stick to his last The idiom "the cobbler should stick to his last" means that a person should focus on their own area of expertise, profession, or skill and should not try to meddle or give opinions on matters they have little or no knowledge about. This saying emphasizes the importance of individuals staying within their own domain and not overstepping their boundaries. It originated from the saying "let the cobbler stick to his last," where "last" refers to the wooden mold used by cobblers to shape shoes, indicating that cobblers should stay focused on their craft.
  • you should be so lucky!, at you'll be lucky! The idiomatic phrase "you should be so lucky!" or "at you'll be lucky!" is used to express skepticism or doubt towards someone's high expectations or hopes for something to happen. It implies that the person's desired outcome is highly unlikely or almost impossible to occur. Essentially, it dismisses the possibility of good fortune or success for that person.
  • zigged when one should've zagged The idiom "zigged when one should've zagged" is used to describe a situation where someone made a wrong decision or took the wrong course of action, leading to negative consequences. It refers to making a mistake by choosing the wrong path or direction.

Similar spelling words for SHOULD

Conjugate verb Should

PRESENT

I should
we should
you should
he/she/it should
they should

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