Had better

Posted By Manjusha in English Grammar

Had better refers to the immediate future. It is followed by an infinitive without to. It is a strong advice. We use it to tell people what to do.

• You had better consult a doctor.
  
• You had better apologize.
  
• We had better hurry up. We are already late.
  

Had better sometimes suggests a threat and is not used in polite requests.

• You had better tell them soon. If you don't, there will be trouble.
  
• You had better mend your ways.
  

To make negative forms, we put not between had better and infinitive.

• You had better not irritate him.
  

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