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had better. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
had better, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
had better in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
had better you have here. The definition of the word
had better will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
had better, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Alternative forms
Etymology
See better (adverb)
Pronunciation
Verb
had better
- (idiomatic, with bare infinitive, informal) Should; ought to; need to; must.
You had better finish that homework on time, if you want to get a good grade.
“Will we get it finished?” / “We had better.”
The project had better get finished by the current deadline.
Usage notes
- The negative form is had better not, but in question hadn’t is also possible (see also bettern't).
- Had better is a strong expression. It usually indicates that there will be a consequence or negative result if someone does not follow the suggestion.
- Colloquially, had is often reduced to the clitic 'd or omitted. See better.
We'd better be ready when the time comes.
You better have my money by tomorrow.
Synonyms
Translations