Had better and would rather

• Had better
• Would rather
  • Would rather + past simple (for preferences about other people)

Had better

Had better (often contracted to 'd better) is used for strong advice or warnings. It is followed by the infinitive without to:

You'd better hurry or you'll be late.

She'd better study for the exam.

We'd better not tell anyone.

Had better is stronger than should. It implies there will be a negative consequence if you don't follow the advice.

Would rather

Would rather (often contracted to 'd rather) means prefer. It is also followed by the infinitive without to:

I'd rather stay home tonight.

She'd rather not go.

Would you rather eat at home or go to a restaurant?

Would rather + past simple (for preferences about other people)

When we use would rather with a different subject, we use the past simple (even though we're talking about the present or future):

I'd rather you didn't smoke here.

She'd rather he came tomorrow.