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.
5th June 2025

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.
Usage
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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