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.
Although Cal/OSHA doesn’t have the authority to ban the sale of the product, the association argued that it ought to ban its production and fabrication in the state.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 12, 2026
Democrats and Republicans alike ought to brace for impact.
From Slate ● Aug. 7, 2026
Instead, he told me he'd "brought it straight forward", understood to mean speeding up the government review by Baroness Louise Casey of what ought to be done, not saying, "here's the plan".
From BBC ● Jul. 27, 2026
The AMA ought to be ashamed for ignoring the bulk of American physicians.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 26, 2026
Penelope whispered to the children that they ought to let Mrs. Apple sleep, but they were wide-awake and much too excited to stay quiet.
From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood
