0
Natalia09 Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

should have

Dear all,

I would like to know if the expression" shoul have done something" means an assumption or a duty in the past. Example:

According to the law, the employee should have notified the employer in writing about ...

Would such expression be possible?

Thank you
  

Top answer

Hi, I would like to know if the expression" should have done something" means an assumption or a duty in the past. Example: According to the law, the employee should have notified the employer in writing about ... Would such expression be possible?

— Clive

  • Hi, I would like to know if the expression" should have done something" means an assumption or a duty in the past.
  • Example: According to the law, the employee should have notified the employer in writing about ...
  • Would such expression be possible?
  • Yes, it's fine.
  • The employe had a duty to notify .
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

4 Answers
0
Hi,

I would like to know if the expression" should have done something" means an assumption or a duty in the past. Example:

According to the law, the employee should have notified the employer in writing about ...

Would such expression be possible? Yes, it's fine. The employe had a duty to notify . . .
0
0
But what about such sentences like:

You should have listened to what I said.

Does it not mean obligation?
0
0
Ok, sorry, than you agree, that it "should have done" can mean duty".

Thank you a lot.
0
0
Hi,

You should have listened to what I said.

Does it not mean obligation?
Yes.
I suppose you could say that's a weaker form of duty.

Clive
0

Related Questions