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moshi26
Joined: 23 Mar 2007
Posts: 1
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 Posted: Sat Mar 24, 2007 7:44 pm Post subject: had better (modals) |
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I often use �had better� to give strong advice, but my American friend told me that I was not so polite when I said, �You had better come over to my house for dinner.� Can you help me to use modals politely?
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Lorikeet
Joined: 08 Oct 2005
Posts: 1877
Location: San Francisco
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| Posted: Sun Mar 25, 2007 10:22 am Post subject: |
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Use "should" instead when you make a suggestion. "Had better" often is used in a threat or a warning.
You'd better drive carefully or you will get in an accident.
You'd better study or you won't pass the test.
Notice, if you use it for yourself, it is not impolite.
I'm sorry I really should go.
I'm sorry I'd better go now. |
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CP
Joined: 12 Jun 2006
Posts: 2875
Location: California
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| Posted: Sun Mar 25, 2007 8:09 pm Post subject: |
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"You had better come over to my house for dinner" means "Come over to my house for dinner or expect some bad consequences."
"I'd like you to come over to my house for dinner" is much more polite, and it doesn't carry any implied threat. Some others:
"Would you like to come over to my house for dinner?"
"Won't you please come over to my house for dinner?"
"I would be honored if you would come over to my house for dinner."
"How would you like to come over to my house for dinner?"
"It would be great if you could come over to my house for dinner."
"You're invited to my house for dinner. Bring a big appetite."
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