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.

Ministers have acknowledged already that guidance to forces is clunky and ought to be reviewed.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

We ought to be putting applied research centers all over the country to help every region compete by working with local businesses and workers to help them adapt to AI and new technology.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

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

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

“China would be smart to cool it a little bit. They ought to both cool it.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

A flame, no matter how small, could at once draw a ghost while also keeping them from crossing the boundaries they ought not to cross.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny