Ought

Definition

Ought is a modal verb that expresses obligation, duty, or correctness, typically implying what is expected or morally right. It can also indicate probability or likelihood in certain contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Modal Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɔːt/
• Respelling: AWT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɔːt/
• Respelling: AWT

Etymology

The word "ought" originates from Old English "āgan," meaning "to owe" or "to possess," which evolved into the Middle English "oughte," implying obligation or necessity. Its root is the Proto-Germanic "*aiganą," meaning "to own" or "to owe."

Derivatives

• Oughtn't (contraction, informal)
• Ought to (phrase)
• Oughtness (noun, rare)
• Should (synonymic usage, contextual)
• Outghtily (adverb, archaic)

Synonyms

• Should
• Must
• Have to

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The modal verb "ought" is commonly used to express advice, obligation, or probability. For example: "You ought to finish your homework before going out," or "The weather ought to be better tomorrow."

Related Terms

• Should: A modal verb expressing obligation or probability.
• Must: A stronger modal verb indicating necessity.
• May: A modal verb used to express possibility or permission.

Detailed Definitions

Modal Verb

• Expressing obligation or duty: Indicates what is expected or morally right.
  • Example: "You ought to respect your elders."
• Indicating probability or likelihood: Refers to an event or action that is expected to occur.
  • Example: "He ought to arrive by 6 PM."