"This must be the cause of the problem" vs "This should be the cause of the problem"

Question

"This must be the cause of the problem" vs "This should be the cause of the problem"

Both phrases are correct, but they convey slightly different levels of certainty. 'This should be the cause of the problem' implies a likelihood or recommendation, while 'This must be the cause of the problem' indicates a stronger sense of certainty or obligation.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used to assert a high level of certainty that something is the cause of a problem or issue.

Alternatives:

this has to be the cause of the problem
this is definitely the cause of the problem

This phrase is used to suggest a probable cause of a problem or issue, indicating a level of certainty or recommendation.

Alternatives:

this might be the cause of the problem
this could be the cause of the problem

Answer 1

This must be the cause of the problem

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express a strong sense of certainty or obligation.

Answer 2

This should be the cause of the problem

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express a likelihood or recommendation.

"This must be the cause of the problem" vs "This should be the cause of the problem"

This must be the cause of the problem

This should be the cause of the problem

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