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

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

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

Against this inflationary backdrop, Komal Sri-Kumar, head of a global strategies firm bearing his name, says the Fed ought to be considering an increase in its fed-funds target.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

Briefly, Penelope wondered if she ought to find her and tell her that her speech-making services would not be needed after all, but there was no time to go searching.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood