Idiomatic Verb Phrases

An important idiomatic verb phrases is to be supposed to. This phrases is commonly used and fills a necessary place in English speech. In meaning, it is similar to to be expected to, and generally expresses an obligation to fulfill some promise or expectation. Note that the phrase is passive in form; therefore, the obligation arises because the subject is expected or "supposed" by someone else to perform the indicated action. It is used in the present and past tenses only.

Mr. Smith is supposed (by his manager) to return tomorrow.

The ship was supposed to arrive last night.

They were supposed to deliver the goods yesterday.

Another common idiomatic verb phrase is would rather. This phrase function like a two-word auxiliary and thus is followed by the simple (infinitive) form of the verb without to. It has the meaning of to prefer. It refer to present or future time only.

I would rather watch (means I prefer to watch) television than go to a movie.

He would rather walk than take a taxi.

In everyday conversation, this phrase is generally used in contracted form as follows:

I'd rather wait outside.

He'd rather meet us downtown.

Another common idiomatic phrase, similar in form to would rather, is had better. This phrase also functions like a two-word auxiliary and is followed by the simple (infinitive) form of the verb. It has the meaning of to be better or to be advisable. It refers to present or future time only.

You had better see a doctor at once (mean it is advisable that you see a doctor at once).

She had better come back later.

In everyday conversation, this phrase is also generally used in contracted form as follows:

She'd better rest a while.