Past modals for advice and obligation
Use should have, need not have and was supposed to when evaluating past choices and expectations.
Learning goal: Past modals for advice and obligation
Distinguish criticism, unnecessary completed action and an unmet arrangement.
In a nutshell
Use should have, need not have and was supposed to when evaluating past choices and expectations.
When do we use it?
Distinguish criticism, unnecessary completed action and an unmet arrangement.
Pattern
Form
Should have = better past choice; needn’t have = unnecessary action done; was supposed to = expected action.
- You should have called.
- We needn’t have rushed.
- He was supposed to arrive at six.
Examples
Key contrast
At B2, choose the form from the complete context: sequence, viewpoint, degree of certainty and clause structure all matter.
Watch out
Common mistakes
You should called.→ You should have called.We didn’t need have rushed.→ We needn’t have rushed.
Key takeaway
Remember
Use should have, need not have and was supposed to when evaluating past choices and expectations.
Self-check
Quick check
- Identify the time relationship or intended meaning.
- Check the auxiliary, participle and clause pattern.
- Eliminate answers that fit the words but not the context.
Put it into practice
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