Key Difference

Both “should” and “ought to” are used to give advice, suggest something, or express an obligation or expectation. However, “should” is more common in everyday language, while “ought to” can sound a bit more formal or traditional.

Breakdown: “Should” vs. “Ought to”

1. “Should”

• Use: We use “should” to give advice, make recommendations, or talk about what’s ideal or expected.
• Tone: It’s casual and very common in both spoken and written English.
• Examples:
  • “You should exercise regularly to stay healthy.” (suggesting a healthy habit)
  • “He should call his parents more often.” (suggesting what would be considerate)
• In Negative Form: “Should” becomes “should not” or “shouldn’t.”
  • Example: “You shouldn’t eat too much sugar.”

2. “Ought to”

• Use: Like “should,” “ought to” gives advice or suggests something that is right or recommended. It can also imply a slightly stronger sense of duty or moral expectation.
• Tone: It’s more formal than “should” and used less frequently, especially in casual conversation.
• Examples:
  • “You ought to apologize for being late.” (suggesting that it’s the right thing to do)
  • “They ought to arrive by noon.” (expressing an expectation)
• In Negative Form: “Ought to” typically becomes “ought not to” or simply “ought not” (without “to”).
  • Example: “You ought not to speak so loudly in the library.”

Practical Differences in Use

In most cases, “should” and “ought to” are interchangeable. However, “ought to” is more often used in situations where there’s a sense of moral or ethical obligation. Here are a few examples to show this subtle distinction:

• Casual advice (more likely with “should”):
  • “You should try that new restaurant in town!”
• Moral obligation (often with “ought to”):
  • “We ought to respect the environment.”

In modern English, “should” tends to be used more often, especially in casual contexts.

Practice Time!

Fill in the blanks with “should” or “ought to” based on what fits best:

1. You _______ visit your grandparents more often.
2. They _______ finish their homework before playing video games.
3. We _______ respect each other’s opinions.
4. She _______ take a break if she’s feeling tired.

Answers:

1. should
2. should
3. ought to
4. should