WOULD HAVE – SHOULD HAVE (past tense

modals)

The simple past just tells what happened. Past modals tell what could
have, would have, and should have happened.

I would have gone to the party, but I was tired.

He should have told the truth about what he saw, however he didn’t it.

WOULD HAVE
Using “but”
Example:
I would have called, but there was no phone service.
I would have loaned you the money, but I didn’t have any.
It suggests a bad feeling about the past
If she would have been faithful… I wouldn’t have been confused.
SHOULD HAVE
Should have means that something did not happen, but we wish it had
happened. We use should have to talk about past mistakes.
Example: A worried mother might say:
“I was so worried about you. You should have called!”
In apologies.
Example:
I’m sorry that I’m late for work. I should have woken up earlier.
CONTRACTIONS
Should’ve – would’ve
Shoulda’ – Woulda’ – Wouldn’ta
VOCABULARY

Amused
Confused
Embarrassed
Grateful
Helpful
Hurt
Inconsiderate
Irritated
Relieved
Rude
Shocked
Sympathetic
Thoughtful
Uncomfortable
Dishonest
Jealous
Upset

Exercise:
Imagine that you have a chance to go back to the time of the discovery
of America.
What would you have done if you were a Native American?
 Write five actions that answer the question using would have and
should have