ought to

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.

Similarly, a newly issued report by the Government Accountability Office External link ought to quell concerns about the quality of employment data produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which assembles the monthly jobs report.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 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

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

“Seems like I ought to help. Become a land rush man. Set aside my guns. California and the Pacific Ocean aren’t going anywhere.”

From "Will’s Race for Home" by Jewell Parker Rhodes