English

Alternative forms

• 'd better
• better

Phrase

had better

1. (idiomatic, with bare infinitive, informal) Should; ought to; need to; must.

   You had better finish that homework on time, if you want to get a good grade.‎

   "Will we get it finished?" / "We had better."‎

   The project had better get finished by the current deadline.‎

Usage notes

• The negative form is had better not.
• Had better is a strong expression. It usually indicates that there will be a consequence or negative result if someone doesn't follow the suggestion.
• Colloquially, had is often reduced to the clitic 'd or omitted. See better.

You better have my money by tomorrow.‎

Synonyms

• had best

Translations