1. Home
2. Idioms
3. had better

had better

---

---

had better

should or must I thought I had better destroy the list so that no one else would see it. You'd better get moving if you want to catch your train.

Usage notes: had is sometimes not said: If we have a problem you better hope somebody is there to help you.

See also: better

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.

See also: better

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.

See also: better