top of page
Previous: must
2.2.1.2.11 ought to
Ought to is a phrasal modal verb. Some grammarians classify ought to as one of the semi-modal verbs, in the sense that in some ways it is like a modal verb and in some ways it is like a main verb. For example, unlike modal verbs, ought is always followed by to, but like modal verbs, it does not change form for person.
The negative of ought to is ought not to, or oughtn't to in contracted form.
2.2.1.2.11.1 Expressing duty, or when something that is necessary or would be a good thing to do.
For example:
-
You ought to go work in the private sector instead of staying in the government.
-
Men and women ought to be treated equally and be paid equally as well.
2.2.1.2.11.2 Used to express something that is likely to happen. For example:
-
He ought to be home by now.
-
Peter took his umbrella so he ought not to get wet.
bottom of page