ほうがいい (hougaii)
advises that something is the better choice; ought to; would be wise to
Meaning & usage
ほうがいい gives advice that one option is better, meaning you ought to do something or would be wise to do it. It follows the past ta form of a verb for a positive suggestion, as in 行ったほうがいい, and the nai form for a negative suggestion, as in 行かないほうがいい. Although it uses the ta form, it does not refer to the past. The tone can sound firm, so softer endings like よ or です are often added when speaking to others.
Example sentences 8
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お金をむだ使いしないほうがいい。
You had better not waste your money.
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すぐ病院に行った方がいいよ。
You should go to the hospital at once.
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暗くなってきたな。家に帰った方がいいぞ。
It's getting dark. You'd better go home.
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今すぐ出かけた方がいいですよ。
You should leave now.
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朝食は食べた方がいいよ。
You should eat breakfast.
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もうちょっとゆっくり話した方がいいんじゃない？
I think you should speak a bit more slowly.
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もっと食べた方がいいよ。
You should eat more.
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コートを着たほうがいいよ。
You should put your coat on.
In past JLPT papers
This came up in 5 past exam questions.
And 1 more test.
