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"shouldn't" vs "mustn't"

Both 'shouldn't' and 'mustn't' are correct, but they convey different meanings. 'Shouldn't' is used to indicate something that is not recommended or advisable, while 'mustn't' is used to indicate something that is prohibited or forbidden.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

shouldn't

This is a commonly used contraction of 'should not' to indicate something that is not recommended or advisable.

'Shouldn't' is used to express advice, suggestions, or opinions about what is the best course of action in a given situation.

Examples:

  • You shouldn't eat too much sugar if you want to stay healthy.
  • She shouldn't be late for the meeting.

Alternatives:

  • should not
  • ought not
  • had better not
  • would be wise not to
  • it is not advisable to

mustn't

This is a correct term used to indicate something that is prohibited or forbidden.

'Mustn't' is used to give a strong prohibition or to emphasize that something is not allowed under any circumstances.

Examples:

  • You mustn't smoke in this area.
  • Students mustn't cheat on exams.

Alternatives:

  • must not
  • are not allowed to
  • are prohibited from
  • are forbidden to
  • should not

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