Should be vs ought to be

Both "should be" and "ought to be" are correct and commonly used in English. They are interchangeable in most contexts, but "ought to be" may sound a bit more formal or old-fashioned. The choice between them depends on the speaker's preference or the desired tone of the sentence.

Last updated: March 20, 2024

Should be

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use "should be" to express an obligation, duty, or expectation. It is a common phrase in everyday English.

Examples:

You should be more careful with your belongings.
The report should be ready by tomorrow.

Alternatives:

ought to be
must be
has to be
needs to be
is supposed to be

ought to be

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, but it may sound more formal or old-fashioned.

Use "ought to be" to express an obligation, duty, or expectation. It is slightly more formal than "should be."

Examples:

You ought to be more respectful to your elders.
The project ought to be completed by the end of the week.

Alternatives:

should be
must be
has to be
needs to be
is supposed to be

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Should be vs ought to be

Should be

ought to be

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