〜方がいい should, had better
Core meaning - should, had better
Form - Verb (た-form) + 方がいい; Verb (ない-form) + 方がいい
Usage - Focus on the highlighted segment in each example; surrounding words can change while the pattern function stays the same.
Use this pattern for its grammatical function, not as a literal word-by-word translation.
See examples below for varied real-world usage.
Pattern scope
- Use this pattern as a grammar frame: Verb (た-form) + 方がいい; Verb (ない-form) + 方がいい.
Do not overextend meaning
- The highlighted form shows the grammar point; other words in the sentence can vary.
Check register and context
- Prefer natural context, and avoid translating word-by-word from English.
You should go to bed early.
In everyday context, You should go to bed early.
In real communication, You should go to bed early.
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