Any difference between “should” and “supposed to”?

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A student asked if there’s any difference between should and supposed to.

“Should” is used more for general advice, and “supposed to” is used more for when something needs to follow a rule.

If you feel sick, you should go to the doctor. There’s no “rule” about going to the doctor when sick, but it would be a good thing to do.

Bicycles are supposed to be parked in this area. This means there’s a rule or expectation that this happens.

“Supposed to” is often used when the rule exists but isn’t being followed. For example, bicycles are supposed to be parked in this area, but most people leave them out on the sidewalk instead.

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