The meaning of OUGHT is —used to express obligation, advisability, natural expectation, or logical consequence. How to use ought in a sentence.

OUGHT definition: 1. used to say that it is necessary or desirable to perform the action expressed in the verb: 2…. Learn more.

You use ought to to mean that it is morally right to do a particular thing or that it is morally right for a particular situation to exist, especially when giving or asking for advice or opinions. If you get …

1. to indicate duty or obligation: you ought to pay your dues. 2. to express prudent expediency: you ought to be more careful with your money. 3. (usually with reference to future time) to …

Ought not occurs in all types of speech and writing and is fully standard: The conferees ought not to waste time on protocol. Oughtn't, largely a spoken form, is found mainly in the Midland and …

What does the verb ought mean? There are 31 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb ought, 13 of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation …

OUGHT definition: 1. used to say or ask what is the correct or best thing to do: 2. used to say that you expect…. Learn more.

You use ought to to mean that it is morally right to do a particular thing or that it is morally right for a particular situation to exist, especially when giving or asking for advice or opinions. [...]

Mar 26, 2025 · (auxiliary) Indicating duty or obligation. I ought to vote in the coming election. (auxiliary) Indicating advisability or prudence. You ought to stand back from the edge of the …

OUGHT meaning: 1. used to say that it is necessary or desirable to perform the action expressed in the verb: 2…. Learn more.