Past modals: should have
Introductions constructions with should + present perfect forms to express changes in past actions.
Would you like to change something you did? Using the structure learned today name the things you regret or the things you should have done differently in your life.
Explanation: You can express recommendations in the past or regrets.
Structure: Subject + should + have + Past Participle
- When I was in high school, I should have studied harder.
- You shouldn't have waited so long to talk about your plans with your family.
- Bob should have prepared better for the exam, he failed.
Modals in Past
| Modals | Concept | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Would have | Past unreal action | If I had guessed the future, I would have taken some precautions against what would happen. |
| Could have | Past unreal ability | He could have taken the flight |
| May have | Past unreal posibility | We may have passed the math exam, but it was in Spanish |
| Might have | Past unreal small probability | You might have sold the car, if you really needed the money |
| Should have | Past unreal recommendation | You should have listened to the teacher |
| Must have | Past unreal assumption | We must have been crazy! |