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.

“If it’s good enough for David, it ought to be good enough for you as a fan.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Similarly, a newly issued report by the Government Accountability Office External link ought to quell concerns about the quality of employment data produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which assembles the monthly jobs report.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

They know what it is and what it ought to look like.

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

If your retirement fund is not where it ought to be, then you don’t give money to family members as a gesture.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

“One could hardly fashion a disguise for a scullery maid or a stowaway out of these elegant fabrics. But for my purposes, they ought to do quite well.”

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood