Grammar 4-05 | Low Intermediate | CEFR B1

Should - Suggestions

Listen to how a speaker can give suggestions.

Man: What should I do in your city?
Woman: You should visit the harbor. There is a lot to do there.
Man: When is the best time to go?
Woman: I would go on the weekday. Don’t go on the weekend.
Man: Why should I go then?
Woman: It gets really crowded on the weekends and everything is overpriced. It is cheaper on the weekdays.

Man: What foods should I try?
Woman: You should try the local seafood. It’s really fresh.
Man: Anything in particular?
Woman: I would try the grilled Mahi-Mahi. It is to die for!
Man: Is there anything I should skip?
Woman: I wouldn’t eat the crab. It’s overrated.

Man: What about nightlife?
Woman: If you like dancing. Club One is a great place to go.
Man: I am not much of a dancer, but I like singing.
Woman: In that, check out the karaoke club near the harbor.
Man: Is it hard to get in.
Woman: No, you should be fine.

Man: When is the best time to go?
Woman: I would go in March.
Man: Why is that?
Woman: The weather is nice and it does not rain much.
Man: When is the worst time?
Woman: I wouldn’t go in July. It’s too hot.

Giving Suggestions

Notice how speakers can use should, would and some phrases to give advice or suggestions.

Point 1: Use should to offer suggestions.
Should / Shouldn’t

(Q) What should I eat?
(A) You should try the fish.
(N) You shouldn’t eat the salad.

(Q) Should I where this coat?
(A) Yes, you should. It looks good on you.
(N) No, you shouldn’t. It is hot today.

Point 2: Use would in the first persong to offer suggestions.
Would / Wouldn’t

(Q) What would you do?
(A) I would go to the park.
(N) I wouldn’t take the bus.

(Q) Would you wear this?
(A) Yes, I would.
(N) No, I wouldn’t.

Point 3: Use if-clauses to offer suggestions.
If you ---- , -----

If you have time, visit the museum.
If you like fish, try the sushi.
If you can afford it, stay at the Ritz.

Imperatives
Point 4: Use verbs in the imperative form to offer suggestions.

Check out the mall downtown.
Be sure to wear warm clothes.
Don’t talk to strangers.
Don’t pay more than 20 dollars for it.

Answer the following questions about the interview.