how do natives use you'd better?

moonmooncake   Thu Dec 10, 2009 8:43 am GMT
is it true that it's impolite or even rude to use you'd better in a situation like a student talking to a teacher? how can i use it properly?
Guest   Thu Dec 10, 2009 8:22 pm GMT
It might be rude for a student to say "you'd better" to a teacher. It all depends on the context, though. For example, "you'd better" sometimes indicates an order and of course ordering your teacher to do something is not appropriate. On the other hand, "you'd better" can also indicate a light suggestion. So, "You'd better give me a good grade." is definitely not good because it almost sounds like a threat, but "You'd better bring an umbrella tomorrow because it's going to rain." would probably be fine.