ought
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.
The house needn’t be fleshed out to be made to seem real, but since it plays such an important role in the play, its presence onstage ought to at least be palpable to the characters.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026
Powerful nations are flouting international law, and somebody ought to stop them.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026
In a ruling, Mr Justice Choudhury refused the injunction bid, stating Mr Rosindell's case was "intrinsically weak" and that he "ought to have realised that he had surrendered his right to occupy" his office.
From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026
I don’t think theoretical value ought to outweigh public confidence under any circumstances.
From Barron's • Mar. 28, 2026
“How shocked you look, governess! Surely you ought to have figured it out by now.”
From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
