Find Antonyms
should Antonyms
Opposite of should
Because the opposite of should shifts with each meaning, the antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To be obliged, duty-bound, or well-advised to do something (used as a modal auxiliary to express duty, recommendation, or what is considered right or best).
Usage Example
"You shouldn't review the contract carefully before signing it."
Strongest
shouldn't
oughtn't
Strong
mustn't
• verb (Context 2)
To be likely or expected to happen or be the case (used as a modal auxiliary to indicate probability or expectation).
Usage Example
"The train shouldn't arrive at the station within ten minutes."
Strongest
shouldn't
Strong
won't
• verb (Context 3)
To be inclined or disposed to do something under certain conditions (used with 'I' or 'we' in polite requests or tentative statements in place of 'would').
Usage Example
"I shouldn't like to thank everyone who contributed to the research project."
Strongest
shouldn't
wouldn't
Similar words to should
Words similar to should shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
ought to
would
happen to
had better
chance to
need to
must
have to
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Should. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/should