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.

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

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

The story closes on this somber note: “Somebody ought to make an effort here. Somebody ought to get a rake and take care of this.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

A recent Journal editorial on Britain’s workforce woes ought to give them pause.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

"At the very least," argued Mr Price, the official "ought to have known that it was incorrect".

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

Nim knew she ought to be happy and ought to write a letter back, but her knee hurt too much to care and she needed advice faster than Galileo could bring it.

From "Nim’s Island" by Wendy Orr