ought to

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"At the very least the risk ought to have been obvious to you," the judge added.

From BBC • Jun. 19, 2026

The thing is, all the discourse around this new ban is could, might, and ought to, because it’s just too soon to say what effect it will have.

From Slate • Jun. 18, 2026

For now, champagne corks ought to be popping in Islamabad.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 17, 2026

Its first earnings report as a public company, likely over the summer, ought to be a huge test for the stock.

From Barron's • Jun. 16, 2026

“Oh, it is torture! If she truly is coming, I say she ought to get here at once and put an end to this dreadful waiting.”

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood