Key Concept: What “Ought To” Means

“Ought to” is similar to “should,” but it often carries a stronger or more formal tone. It suggests that an action is recommended, necessary, or the right thing to do. It’s a way of giving polite advice without being too direct or forceful.

When and How to Use “Ought To” in Formal Advice

Here are some cases where “ought to” is commonly used:

1. Moral Recommendations
   • Example: “You ought to respect others’ opinions, even if you disagree.”
   • This implies that respecting others is the right action.
2. Strong Suggestions
   • Example: “To ensure accuracy, you ought to double-check all calculations.”
   • Here, it means that double-checking is a wise choice that could prevent mistakes.
3. Expressing Expectations
   • Example: “The report ought to be submitted by the end of the day.”
   • This suggests that submitting the report on time is expected and important.

Structure: How to Form Sentences with “Ought To”

The structure is quite simple! “Ought to” follows the subject and is then followed by the base form of the verb.

• Structure: Subject + ought to + base verb + rest of sentence
• Examples:
  • “Students ought to take notes during lectures.”
  • “Employees ought to maintain professionalism at all times.”

Nuances of “Ought To” vs. “Should”

Although “ought to” and “should” can often be used interchangeably, “ought to” is generally more formal and emphasizes the idea of duty or correctness.

• Example with “should”: “You should try to finish the project by Friday.”
• Example with “ought to”: “You ought to try to finish the project by Friday.”
  • The second example sounds slightly more formal and insistent.

Practice Time: Try Using “Ought To”

Let’s practice to see how well you understand using “ought to.”

1. Fill in the blanks with “ought to” and the correct base verb:
   • Example: Employees _______ (follow) company policies to ensure smooth operations.
   • Answer: Employees ought to follow company policies to ensure smooth operations.
2. Practice sentences:
   • 1. Every citizen _______ (vote) in the elections to have their voice heard.
   • 2. Parents _______ (set) a good example for their children.
   • 3. Travelers _______ (check) the weather before setting off on a long trip.

   Answers:

   • 1. Every citizen ought to vote in the elections to have their voice heard.
   • 2. Parents ought to set a good example for their children.
   • 3. Travelers ought to check the weather before setting off on a long trip.