That It Should Be: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey guys! Ever find yourself pondering over the phrase "that it should be"? It's one of those expressions we hear all the time, but rarely stop to dissect. Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into what it really means, how to use it correctly, and why it matters. Trust me; by the end of this article, you'll be a "that it should be" sensei!

Unpacking the Meaning

Okay, so what's the deal with "that it should be"? At its core, this phrase expresses a sense of expectation, obligation, or correctness. It suggests that something is in alignment with a predefined standard, plan, or ideal. Think of it as a verbal nod to the way things are supposed to be. Let’s break it down:

• Expectation: When you say, "That it should be easy," you're expressing the expectation that the task at hand should be straightforward. Maybe it's because you've done it a million times or because the instructions seem simple enough. The phrase carries an inherent assumption of ease based on prior knowledge or perceived simplicity.
• Obligation: Sometimes, "that it should be" hints at an obligation. For example, "That it should be completed by Friday" implies a deadline or a requirement. There's a sense of duty or responsibility attached to the action, making it more than just a suggestion—it's something that needs to happen within a specific timeframe.
• Correctness: This aspect delves into the realm of accuracy and appropriateness. Saying, "That it should be accurate" emphasizes the importance of precision and truthfulness. It's a call for ensuring that the information, calculations, or results align with established facts or standards.

In essence, "that it should be" acts as a verbal benchmark, setting the stage for how things are expected to unfold. It encapsulates a blend of anticipation, responsibility, and accuracy, making it a powerful yet subtle tool in everyday communication. Understanding these nuances can significantly enhance how you interpret and use the phrase, making your interactions more precise and effective. So next time you hear or use "that it should be," remember to consider the underlying layers of expectation, obligation, and correctness it brings to the table.

Common Use Cases

So, where do we usually hear this phrase in action? Let’s explore some common scenarios to get a better handle on its practical applications.

• Project Management: In the world of project management, "that it should be" is practically a mantra. Think about a team lead saying, "The report should be finalized by EOD." Here, it's not just a suggestion; it's an expectation tied to project timelines and deliverables. It sets a clear standard for when the task needs to be completed, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal. Using the phrase in this context helps maintain accountability and keeps the project on track.
• Technical Specifications: Tech specs are all about precision, and "that it should be" fits right in. Consider a software engineer stating, "The API response time should be under 200ms." This isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a critical requirement for system performance. The phrase highlights the importance of meeting specific technical criteria, ensuring that the software functions efficiently and provides a seamless user experience. It emphasizes the need for adherence to established benchmarks and performance standards.
• Quality Assurance: Quality assurance relies heavily on predefined standards, making "that it should be" a key phrase. Imagine a QA tester noting, "The form validation should prevent invalid entries." This ensures that the system maintains data integrity and prevents errors. It reinforces the importance of upholding quality standards and ensuring that the product functions as intended. It's a testament to the commitment to delivering a reliable and error-free product to the end-users.
• Instructions and Guidelines: When providing instructions, clarity is paramount. A sentence like, "The screws should be tightened clockwise" leaves no room for ambiguity. It ensures that the task is performed correctly, following the prescribed method. The phrase reinforces the importance of accuracy and adherence to instructions, helping users avoid mistakes and achieve the desired outcome.
• Agreements and Contracts: Contracts often use "that it should be" to specify terms and conditions. For example, "Payment should be made within 30 days" sets a clear expectation for when payment is due. This clarity helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that all parties are aware of their obligations.

In each of these scenarios, "that it should be" provides a clear, concise way to express expectations, obligations, and standards. It's a versatile phrase that helps maintain clarity and ensures everyone is on the same page. So, next time you're managing a project, reviewing tech specs, or providing instructions, remember the power of "that it should be" in setting the right expectations and maintaining quality.

Grammar and Syntax

Alright, grammar nerds, this one's for you! Let's break down the nuts and bolts of "that it should be" from a grammatical standpoint. Understanding the structure can help you wield this phrase with confidence and precision.

At its core, "that it should be" is a subordinate clause, often functioning as a complement to a main clause. It typically follows a statement or condition, adding an element of expectation or requirement. Here’s a closer look at the components:

• "That": This word serves as a conjunction, linking the subordinate clause to the main clause. It introduces the idea or condition being discussed.
• "It": This pronoun usually refers back to something mentioned in the main clause or the broader context of the conversation. It acts as a placeholder for the subject being discussed.
• "Should": This is a modal verb that indicates obligation, expectation, or possibility. It's the powerhouse of the phrase, conveying the sense of what is expected or required.
• "Be": This is the base form of the verb "to be," which connects the subject ("it") with a predicate adjective or noun, describing the state or condition of the subject.

When constructing sentences with "that it should be," make sure that the main clause provides a clear context. For example:

• Incorrect: "Should be done." (Lacks context and clarity)
• Correct: "Given the resources, that it should be completed by Friday is reasonable."

In this example, the main clause "Given the resources" sets the stage for the expectation that the task should be completed by Friday. The phrase "that it should be" adds a layer of reasonableness, suggesting that the expectation is achievable under the given circumstances.

Here are a few more examples to illustrate the proper syntax:

• "Considering the complexity of the task, that it should be accurate is paramount."
• "Given the team's expertise, that it should be delivered on time is highly likely."
• "Following the instructions carefully, that it should be assembled correctly is expected."

Remember, the key to using "that it should be" effectively is to ensure that it flows seamlessly with the main clause and provides clear, logical context. By understanding the grammatical structure and paying attention to context, you can use this phrase to express expectations, obligations, and standards with confidence and precision.

Alternatives and Synonyms

Okay, so "that it should be" is great, but sometimes you want to mix things up, right? Let's explore some alternative phrases that convey similar meanings, adding a bit of variety to your linguistic toolkit.

• "Is expected to be": This phrase directly expresses an expectation. For example, instead of saying, "That it should be completed by Friday," you could say, "It is expected to be completed by Friday." This alternative is straightforward and emphasizes the anticipated outcome.
• "Is required to be": When you want to stress the obligatory nature of something, this phrase works well. For example, "That it should be accurate" can be replaced with "It is required to be accurate." This alternative highlights the necessity and importance of meeting a specific standard.
• "Is supposed to be": This phrase implies a pre-established plan or arrangement. Instead of saying, "That it should be easy," you could say, "It is supposed to be easy." This alternative conveys a sense of alignment with a predefined expectation.
• "Must be": This is a more direct and forceful alternative, emphasizing the necessity of something. For example, "That it should be done" can be replaced with "It must be done." This alternative leaves no room for ambiguity and underscores the urgency of the task.
• "Ought to be": This phrase suggests a moral or logical obligation. Instead of saying, "That it should be fair," you could say, "It ought to be fair." This alternative appeals to a sense of justice or ethical responsibility.

Here are some examples of how you can use these alternatives in context:

• Original: "Given the resources, that it should be completed by Friday is reasonable."
  • Alternative: "Given the resources, it is expected to be completed by Friday."
• Original: "Considering the complexity of the task, that it should be accurate is paramount."
  • Alternative: "Considering the complexity of the task, it is required to be accurate."
• Original: "Following the instructions carefully, that it should be assembled correctly is expected."
  • Alternative: "Following the instructions carefully, it is supposed to be assembled correctly."

By incorporating these alternatives into your vocabulary, you can add nuance and variety to your communication, while still conveying the core meaning of expectation, obligation, or correctness. So, next time you're crafting a sentence, consider whether one of these alternatives might be a better fit for your intended message. Mixing up your language can keep your writing and speaking fresh and engaging!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Nobody's perfect, and we all make mistakes. Let's shine a light on some common pitfalls to avoid when using "that it should be," so you can sound like a pro every time.

• Lack of Clear Context: One of the biggest mistakes is using "that it should be" without providing sufficient context. Remember, this phrase relies on a preceding statement or condition to make sense. Without context, it can sound vague and confusing.
  • Incorrect: "That it should be." (What should be?)
  • Correct: "Considering the available data, that it should be accurate is expected."
• Misuse of "Should": The modal verb "should" indicates expectation, obligation, or possibility. Using it inappropriately can change the meaning of your sentence.
  • Incorrect: "That it could be finished by tomorrow."
  • Correct: "That it should be finished by tomorrow." (Indicates an expectation or plan)
• Incorrect Subject-Verb Agreement: Make sure the subject of your clause agrees with the verb. In most cases, "it" is the subject, so the verb should be in its singular form.
  • Incorrect: "That they should be ready by noon."
  • Correct: "That it should be ready by noon." (Referring to a specific item or task)
• Overuse of the Phrase: While "that it should be" is a useful phrase, overusing it can make your writing or speech sound repetitive and monotonous. Mix it up with some of the alternatives we discussed earlier to keep things fresh.
  • Repetitive: "That it should be done by Friday. That it should be accurate. That it should be easy."
  • Varied: "It is expected to be done by Friday. Accuracy is required. It is supposed to be easy."
• Incorrect Placement in a Sentence: The phrase "that it should be" typically functions as a subordinate clause and should be placed appropriately in relation to the main clause.
  • Awkward: "The report, that it should be finalized, is due tomorrow."
  • Correct: "That the report should be finalized is due tomorrow."

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can ensure that you use "that it should be" correctly and effectively. Pay attention to context, use the modal verb "should" appropriately, maintain subject-verb agreement, avoid overuse, and place the phrase correctly in your sentences. With a little practice, you'll be using "that it should be" like a seasoned pro!

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! We've journeyed through the ins and outs of "that it should be," from its core meaning to its grammatical structure, common use cases, and potential pitfalls. Hopefully, you now have a solid understanding of how to use this phrase effectively and confidently.

Remember, "that it should be" is more than just a collection of words; it's a powerful tool for expressing expectations, obligations, and standards. Whether you're managing a project, reviewing technical specifications, or simply providing instructions, this phrase can help you communicate with clarity and precision. Keep in mind the importance of context, proper grammar, and avoiding common mistakes, and you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of "that it should be."

And don't forget to mix things up with some of the alternatives we discussed, such as "is expected to be," "is required to be," and "must be." Variety is the spice of language, and incorporating these alternatives into your vocabulary can keep your communication fresh and engaging.

Now go forth and use "that it should be" wisely! You've got the knowledge and the tools to wield this phrase with confidence and precision. Happy communicating!