Modal Phrases (Had Better and Would Rather)

Semi-modal multi-word constructions 'had better' and 'would rather' are followed by the infinitive without to.

Examples: 

• We had better go into the house because it is raining. 
• I can come today but I would rather come tomorrow.

Had Better

'Had better' expresses advice and means 'would find it wiser or more suitable'.
E.g.: You had better go now (=it would be good, wise or suitable for you to go now).

Synonyms: ought to do something / should do something.

In negative structures, better comes before not.
E.g.: You had better not go now.

Patterns. Read and memorize!

1. We had better take an umbrella. It may rain. (We’d (1) better…) 
2. He’d better stop and have a rest if he feels tired. 
3. You’d better go on the excursion. 
4. You had better not eat so much. (You’d better…) 
5. Hadn’t you better hurry if you want to catch the eight o’clock train? (2) 
6. What had I better put on for the party?

Note 1: - The contracted form ‘d is very common.
Note 2: - The negative form 'hadn't better' is used mainly in questions: Hadn't we better try again later?

►'Had' is sometimes dropped in very informal speech.
E. g. : You better go now. 
           I better try again later.