Modals 2: (Suggestions, Obligations & Prohibitions)

When we suggest to someone that he/she should do something = it is a good thing to do or the right thing to do.

You can use "should" to give advice or to give an opinion.

You look tired, you should take a nap.

The government should help people in the pandemic.

You were so rude with her, you should apologize.

You shouldn't do something= it isn't a good thing to do.

You shouldn't believe everything you read on Facebook.

She shouldn't go back with her ex-boyfriend, the guy cheated on her many times.

You shouldn't spend many hours outside, you could be sick.

Read the following example:

"I have to do something" = it is necessary to do it, I am obliged to do it and it's my responsibility to do it.

For example:

I have to keep my bedroom clean every day.

Carlos can't come to the party today, he has to work late.

My brothers are hungry, I have to cook breakfast quickly.

My mom has to wear glasses for reading.

When we say: "You don't have to do it" = you don't need to do it (but you can if you want).

You don't have to tell him, but you can do it if you want to.

I don't have to be at the meeting, but I'll go anyway.

He doesn't have to do the oral exam, but he will do his presentation.

We use "must" to talk about obligations, we want to say that something is totally necessary to do it.

We must be very quiet in the museum.

Before joining the English class, our microphones must be muted.

If you go outside, you must wear a mask.

He must organize his homework.

You mustn't do something = it is a prohibition.

You mustn't use a translator in your English homework.

You mustn't have parties at home, there's still a pandemic.

You mustn't cheat on the exam.

Should/Shouldn't (Suggestions & Advice)

Have to (Obligations & Responsibilities)

Must (Obligations)

Must not/Mustn't (Prohibitions)