What is the Difference Between 'What Am I Supposed to Do' and 'What Should I Do'
Common phrases like “What am I supposed to do” and “What should I do” are often used interchangeably, but they carry different connotations. Understanding the nuances between these phrases can help you better communicate your needs and seek the right kind of guidance or advice.
Understanding the Phrases
What am I supposed to do is a phrase that typically implies a level of obligation or responsibility. It suggests that there is an expectation or requirement for action. This could be due to a rule, a job description, or a plan that is put in place. The speaker is essentially asking for directives or instructions.
What should I do, on the other hand, is a request for advice. This phrase indicates that the speaker is looking for a recommendation or a suggested course of action. The criteria for what constitutes the best course of action might vary; it could be the safest option, the one with the highest likelihood of success, the most ethical choice, or the one that maximizes benefits. The speaker is open to varying perspectives and solutions.
The Role of Verbs in Interpretation
The verbs 'supposed to' and 'should' play a crucial role in distinguishing between these two phrases.
Supposed to vs. Should
Supposed to is commonly used to express obligations or expectations. For instance, when your boss tells you, “I’ve just had a call from the HR department and they say they need your help for a few hours,” you might respond with, “What am I supposed to do?” Here, you are explicitly seeking instructions based on a pre-existing expectation or requirement.
Should is often employed when suggesting what is the best or most appropriate action in a given situation. It can also be used to provide advice, such as, “You should get new tires for your car. Those ones are almost bald.” When you ask, “What should I do,” you are inviting others to offer their best judgment based on the circumstances at hand.
Contextual Differences
The choice between these phrases can vary depending on the context. For instance:
Example 1: You stop by your brother’s house for a quick visit. He’s working on his front porch and offers help. If you say, “What should I do,” you are looking for advice on what is the best way to assist. However, if he actually needs you to nail something together, he might respond with, “What am I supposed to do?” in a more directive manner, expecting you to take action based on his needs.
Example 2: If your sister asks, “What am I supposed to do about this project?” in a formal or structured setting, it implies she is looking for clear instructions or guidance. On the other hand, if she inquires, “What should I do about this project?” she is seeking input on the best strategy to complete it.
Applications and Usage
Incorporating these distinctions into your communication can improve clarity and signal the nature of the help you are seeking. For instance:
Phrase 1: “I’ve just had a call from the HR department and they say they need my help for a few hours. What am I supposed to do?” – In this scenario, you are directly asking for instructions or a task to be performed based on an existing expectation.
Phrase 2: “Should I take this job offer, or wait for something better?” – Here, you are seeking advice on which choice is more beneficial or appropriate given your circumstances.
Conclusion
Distinguishing between “What am I supposed to do” and “What should I do” can enhance your interactions and make your requests for guidance or advice more specific. By using the appropriate phrase, you can effectively communicate the level of expectation or the need for a recommended course of action. This understanding is crucial for both personal and professional settings, ensuring that your interactions are more productive and less ambiguous.