oughtn't vs don't ought to

Both "oughtn't" and "don't ought to" are correct constructions, but they are used in different contexts. "Oughtn't" is a contraction of "ought not" and is commonly used in British English to express obligation or duty. On the other hand, "don't ought to" is not a common construction in English and is considered awkward. Therefore, "oughtn't" is the more appropriate and commonly used choice.

Last updated: April 05, 2024 • 567 views

This is a correct and commonly used contraction in British English to express obligation or duty.

"oughtn't"

Use "oughtn't" as a contraction of "ought not" to express obligation or duty. It is commonly used in British English.

Examples:

You oughtn't to be so rude.
She oughtn't to have spoken to him like that.

Show examples from the web [+]

I oughtn't to work in these places.
I oughtn't to get so angry at that young calf.
I know I oughtn't to presume, but I'm so grateful to you.
You know, maybe I oughtn't to be seen in a wheelchair.
I oughtn't to care what those swines say about me, but I do, and I care about what they say about you.
Well, perhaps I oughtn't to disappoint her.
Alec, you oughtn't to push me.
You oughtn't to kiss a girl like that, Bushrod.
Then you oughtn't stay home Christmas Eve.
One oughtn't to have secrets... or they get worse.
Well, I oughtn't keep you from your...
That it oughtn't be attempted.
But I oughtn't to imagine the process will be quick.
Suppose we oughtn't... let the congregation down.
You oughtn't to have done that, Mr Moon.
Kid, please... you oughtn't to go around throwing stones and things.
She certainly deserved that you you oughtn't to have done it.
It appears I have once again looked upon something I oughtn't have.
And I promise you, it oughtn't to be left much longer.
Even under such duress, you oughtn't presume to strike me.

Alternatives:

shouldn't
ought not to
should not

This construction is not commonly used in English and is considered awkward.

"don't ought to"

Show examples from the web [+]

I don't think you ought to go to London.
I don't think you ought to go with that Canaday woman.
But that don't mean we ought to be judged.
I don't think we ought to discuss her anymore.
And I don't think you ought to read any more of that.
All I wanted to tell you was, I don't think we ought to leave together.
I don't think we ought to wait for him.
Ann, I don't think you ought to put things behind your ears.
I don't think you ought to read any more of that.
I don't think you ought to no home on such a night.
And I don't think it ought to be good enough for you either.
I don't think we ought to do this, Susan.
All right, but I don't think you ought to waste your money on me.
But I really don't think you ought to throw your entire life on the pyre.
I don't think we ought to complain about a few impacted teeth.
I don't think I ought to leave.
I just don't think people ought to go there.
I don't think women ought to sit down at table with men.
I really don't think they ought to do this in public.
I really don't think she ought to see me anymore.

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Humanize AI Content

AI-generated texts or documents (*.docx)
Check for errors and appropriateness
Rephrase to improve flow and style

SUBMIT YOUR AI CONTENT

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.8 stars based on 301'733 votes.

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

oughtn't vs don't ought to

"oughtn't"

"don't ought to"

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text