Had better

[Teia]

Originally Posted by Tdol

Yes, it is used; it can convey more force than 'shouldn't'.

Hi Richard


I think I understand the real meaning of had better vs. should not now that I have done some research on it. Had better has a more compulsory or coercive characteristic.

Thank you very much.

[allawy70]

Do we have to use "better had"? and what difference will it make if we don't

[aggelos]

Had better + bare infinitive means you should do something because, if you don't, the consequences will probably be rather bad for you (as in the case of your girlfriend possibly leaving you). The expression (often contracted to 'd better) is grammatically incorrect without had (or 'd), although many people think that you better, for example, is correct; they just miss the (hardly audible) 'd.

And I think Isra meant I had better leave, not live, right?

[RonBee]

Originally Posted by aggelos

And I think Isra meant I had better leave, not live, right?

Offhand, I'd say yes. Emphatically so.

[Wuisi]

Useful when it comes to giving advice -you are not comparing something to something else, so forget about the 'better'. Always the same form and followed by bare infinitive. In spite of 'had' you are not talking about the past or referring to a past situation, the meaning is present (or near future).I'd better put an end to this. (by the way, do not let 'd rather' lead you astray, this is preference).