ought

Definition

  • noun: moral obligation
  • archaic variant of 'aught'
  • used to indicate what is expected
  • synonyms: possess, owe, duty

Examples

  • It 'ought not' ('to') make any difference. [=(more commonly) it shouldn't make any difference]

  • Children 'ought not' [='should not'] run near the pool.

  • If my math is correct, the result 'ought to' be zero.

Movie quotes

  • (..) I wish I knew how Your eyes are like starlight now To break the spell I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell I ought to say no, no, no, sir Mind if I move in closer? At least I'm gonna say that I tried What's the sense of hurting my pride? (..)
    2003 Elf
  • (..) No cabs to be had out there I wish I knew how to break the Spell I'll take your hat, your hair Looks swell I ought to say no, no, no, sir Mind if I move in closer? At least I'm gonna say that I tried What's the sense of hurting? my pride? (..)
    2003 Elf