Modern use of "I should think" vs. "I would think" in speech

Question

When I listen to old Tom Lehrer recordings he says,

I should like to introduce...

and it sounds a bit strange. However, yesterday I was building a shed with my wife and I said, much to my surprise,

I should think you would have to attach this first.

I'm aware of the slight difference in meaning from "I would think..." but had no idea that I myself would actually naturally use it. Is this an atavism or do other young people actually still use it, say in the US? (Young e.g. 30s and younger).

ann2 · Answer

Yes, absolutely there is a difference and a useful one.

I would like to introduce is a suggestion of a request, asking permission to perform this action.

I should think you have to attach this first is again polite, but a stronger way of making the request.  It's recommended for giving advice.

Oldilocks · Answer

When conjugating the verb "to be" in the "proper" old-fashioned way, it was "I should" and "you, he, and she would."

The terms mean the same thing; the only difference is whether they're being used first person, or second or third person. "Should" for first person is now considered more formal, and alien to some ears, but for some of us it's just proper.

That's why Tom Lehrer and I say, "I should like to introduce . . ." rather than "I would like to introduce."

Modern use of "I should think" vs. "I would think" in speech

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