Shall and Should

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The word shall is rarely used these days. It is quite close in meaning to will and can. These words have gradually replaced it. The phrase, "Shall we dance?" is still popular. Another phrase, "Shall we go?" is often used in a casual, friendly way. Otherwise, this is an old word that has almost disappeared from modern speech.

Should refers to a sense of responsibility or moral obligation. Use should if you need to ask about or express a thought concerning right vs. wrong. More casually, should is used to express a sense of the appropriate. Should we go to the movie? This question could mean several things:

Is now a good time to leave?   Do we really want to go?   Are you ready to go yet?

Examples

1. Should we visit your mother this year?
2. Do you think you should spend that much money on a summer hat?
3. I think we should clean the house tonight.
4. You should talk to your boss. She needs to hear your opinions.
5. You should leave a voicemail. Americans don't respond to missed calls.

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