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instructors ought not to vs ought not to

Both phrases are correct, but the first one seems incomplete as it lacks a verb after 'to'. The second phrase is the more common and complete form, where 'ought not to' is used as a modal verb to express obligation or duty.

Last updated: March 21, 2024 • 831 views

instructors ought not to

The phrase is correct but seems incomplete as it lacks a verb after 'to'.

This phrase can be used in a sentence where the verb that follows 'to' is omitted for stylistic reasons or to create emphasis.

ought not to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express obligation or duty.

This phrase is used as a modal verb to indicate that something is necessary or required. It is a more complete and common form of expressing obligation.
  • 5 days ago ... The negative is formed by adding 'not' after ought (ought not to). It can be contracted to oughtn't to. We don't use don't, doesn't, didn't with ...
  • Remember that "ought to" loses the "to" in the negative. Instead of "ought not to," we say "ought not." "Ought not" is more commonly used in British English.
  • Jul 30, 2011 ... Most of the references I can find about the word “ought” indicate that even when negating it, you should use an infinitive: “You ought not to go ...
  • Such things ought not to be allowed. He oughtn't to have been driving so fast. Grammar Pointshould / ought / had better Should and ought to are both used to ...

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