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You shouldn't have

Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.

5 June 2026

You shouldn't have

We use this expression to say thank you for something and say that maybe the other person has been too generous.

Written: Yes

Spoken: Yes

Formal: No

Informal: Yes

Example 1

Hey, everyone, I've bought doughnuts. There are enough for everybody.

Thanks Joe. Really you shouldn't have.

Don't mention it.

Example 2

Simon, I'm speechless. This is a real diamond.

Well I wanted to get something you'd like and..

I do. It's lovely. But really, you shouldn't have!

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