GIVING ADVICE with Could, Should, Have to and Had Better

GIVING ADVICE with Could, Should, Have to and Had Better INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH English Speaking 360

Explanation + Extra Activities

GIVING ADVICE with Could, Should, Have to and Had Better

Here’s a simple explanation of how to give advice using “could,” “should,” “have to,” and “had better” in easy English:

1. Could (Suggestion)

  • Use “could” to give a suggestion. It’s a light, polite way to give advice. It doesn’t sound strong, and it leaves the decision up to the person.Examples:
    • You could go for a walk if you want to relax.
    • You could try this new restaurant; I heard it’s good.
    • Meaning: It’s an option or idea, but not necessary.

2. Should (Stronger Advice)

  • Use “should” when you think something is a good idea or the right thing to do. It’s stronger than “could” but still polite.Examples:
    • You should drink more water; it’s good for your health.
    • You should study tonight if you want to pass the test.
    • Meaning: It’s a good idea, but it’s still up to the person to decide.

3. Have to (Necessity or Obligation)

  • Use “have to” when something is necessary or there is no choice. It’s not just advice, it’s more of a requirement.Examples:
    • You have to wear a seatbelt in the car. (It’s the law.)
    • I have to finish my homework before I can go out.
    • Meaning: There is no choice. It’s required.

4. Had Better (Strong Warning or Urgent Advice)

  • Use “had better” for strong advice or a warning. It’s used when something bad might happen if you don’t follow the advice. It’s stronger than “should.”Examples:
    • You had better leave now, or you’ll miss the train.
    • He had better apologize, or she will be really upset.
    • Meaning: It’s very important. If you don’t do it, there could be negative consequences.

Summary:

  • Could: A light suggestion, no pressure.
    • You could try this new restaurant.
  • Should: Stronger advice, a good idea.
    • You should eat healthier.
  • Have to: It’s necessary, no choice.
    • You have to go to school.
  • Had better: Strong advice or warning, serious consequences.
    • You had better study, or you will fail the test.

Extra Practice

Quiz: Giving Advice with Could, Should, Have to, and Had Better

Instructions:

Read each problem carefully. Then, choose the correct word (could, should, have to, or had better) to fill in the blanks for each piece of advice.


  1. Problem: You have a big test tomorrow, and you haven’t studied much yet.
    • a) You ______ finish studying tonight if you want to pass.
    • b) You ______ review your notes to be prepared.
    • c) You ______ study a little tonight.
    • d) You ______ study hard, or you might fail the test.

  1. Problem: Your friend is feeling sick but insists on going to a party.
    • a) You ______ stay home and rest.
    • b) You ______ see a doctor if you’re not feeling better.
    • c) You ______ take your medicine.
    • d) You ______ skip the party, or you will make yourself worse.

  1. Problem: It’s very late, and your friend is driving home tired.
    • a) You ______ listen to some music to stay awake.
    • b) You ______ stop driving right now; it’s too dangerous.
    • c) You ______ drive safely, or you might crash.
    • d) You ______ pull over and take a short nap.

  1. Problem: You forgot to bring your lunch to school.
    • a) You ______ eat something before you get too hungry.
    • b) You ______ buy something from the cafeteria.
    • c) You ______ go without eating; it’s not good for you.
    • d) You ______ ask a friend to share their lunch.

  1. Problem: Your computer is running very slowly, and you need to finish an important project.
    • a) You ______ restart your computer.
    • b) You ______ ignore the problem; it could get worse.
    • c) You ______ close unnecessary programs.
    • d) You ______ fix the computer immediately; you have a deadline.

  1. Problem: You are feeling stressed and overwhelmed with schoolwork.
    • a) You ______ manage your time better; it’s important.
    • b) You ______ take a break and relax.
    • c) You ______ let your stress control you; it’s unhealthy.
    • d) You ______ talk to a teacher or counselor about your feelings.

  1. Problem: You want to learn a new language, but you haven’t started yet.
    • a) You ______ wait to learn; it’s not urgent.
    • b) You ______ try watching movies in that language.
    • c) You ______ take a language class to learn properly.
    • d) You ______ start practicing regularly if you want to improve.

  1. Problem: You have a headache and are tempted to ignore it.
    • a) You ______ drink some water.
    • b) You ______ ignore it; it might get worse.
    • c) You ______ see a doctor if it doesn’t go away.
    • d) You ______ take some medicine for the headache.

Answer Key:

  1. a) have to, b) should, c) could, d) had better
  2. a) had better, b) should, c) have to, d) could
  3. a) could, b) had better, c) have to, d) should
  4. a) have to, b) could, c) had better, d) should
  5. a) could, b) had better, c) should, d) have to
  6. a) have to, b) could, c) had better, d) should
  7. a) had better, b) could, c) should, d) have to
  8. a) could, b) had better, c) have to, d) should

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