Should + Perfect Infinitive

This is a common way to express regret or criticism about a past event. The sentence expresses the opposite of what happened.

  • Why did you do that? You should have listened to me. (You didn't listen to me.)
  • I am starving. I should have brought a lunch. (I didn't bring a lunch)
  • I really should have stayed home today. I don't feel well. (I didn't stay home today.)
  • He should have come to class yesterday. He missed a lot of new English. (He didn't come to class yesterday.)

We also use this pattern to support our opinion or feelings.

  • Wow, you should have seen his face! It was unbelievable! (You weren't with us, so you didn't see his face.)
  • Class was fun yesterday. You should have been here! (You didn't come to class, so you don't know about the fun class.)
  • Dinner at the restaurant was so good. You should have come with us. (You didn't come with us, so you didn't experience the great restaurant.)

Could + Perfect Infinitive


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