had better (do something)
Should. You had better listen to what I'm saying before you get yourself into more trouble. Oh, Mom told me last week that I had better start my book report—I just didn't feel like it. You had better keep your mouth shut—the boss doesn't look kindly on people squealing to the cops.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
had better
Also,
had best. Ought to, should. For example,
You had better finish this one before starting another, or
We had best be going. [Mid-1400s] Also see
you'd better believe it.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
had better
/best Usage Problem To be wise or obliged to; should or must: He had better do what he is told. You had best bring a raincoat in this weather.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.