Here we’ll be discussing the difference between ‘should’ and ‘must’. The two words “should” and “must” are helping verbs of modal auxiliary form or simply modals. They provide information about the function of the main verb following it.
Let’s see one examples before starting.
Correct : He should have done it.
Correct : He must have done it.
You should use ‘must’ if you have to give a command or strongly say anything, while should is mostly used to give suggestion in a polite and more respectful way . Must which carries a strong tone while should is a considered to have a soft tone.
When to Use ‘Should’ in Sentences
Should is always used for a request, suggestion, or expectation although in some contexts a request may be so strong that it could be seen as an obligation.
- You should do it for your own benefit.
- You should try it.
- They should read the book, it’s really good.
- He should take care of himself.
- We should respect each other.
When to Use ‘Must’ in Sentences
Must is always used to imply an absolute obligation or certainty.
- I must go now.
- You must help me.
- It must have been really difficult for you.
- They must go together.
- You must respect your parents.
Try replacing these phrases with one another and you’ll see that tone of sentence changes.
For example :
Correct : You should respect him. ( polite request )
Correct : You must respect him. (kind of like an order)
To conclude here we give you the main difference between the two words is that the word “must” is a stronger, as compared to “should”.