Ought vs. Should

Attribute	Ought	Should
Definition	Used to indicate duty or obligation	Used to indicate what is correct or advisable
Emphasis	More on moral or ethical obligations	More on practical or logical recommendations
Usage	Commonly used in philosophical discussions	Commonly used in everyday language

Definition

Ought and should are both modal verbs that express obligation or duty. They are often used interchangeably in everyday language, but there are subtle differences in their meanings and usage.

Usage

Ought is typically used to express a moral or ethical obligation. It suggests that something is the right thing to do based on principles or values. For example, "You ought to apologize for your mistake." Should, on the other hand, is more commonly used to express a practical or logical obligation. It implies that something is necessary or advisable based on common sense or societal norms. For example, "You should wear a seatbelt while driving."

Formality

Ought is considered more formal and old-fashioned compared to should. It is often used in written language, formal speeches, or academic contexts. Should, on the other hand, is more casual and commonly used in everyday conversations. It is also used in informal writing and emails.

Subjectivity

Ought is often used to express subjective opinions or personal beliefs. It implies that the obligation is based on individual values or judgments. Should, on the other hand, is more objective and commonly used to express general rules or expectations that apply to everyone. It suggests a more universal sense of obligation.

Flexibility

Ought is less flexible in terms of expressing degrees of obligation. It often implies a stronger sense of duty or responsibility compared to should. Should, on the other hand, allows for more flexibility in expressing varying levels of obligation. It can suggest a recommendation or advice rather than a strict requirement.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the differences between ought and should:

• Ought: "We ought to help those in need." (moral obligation)
• Should: "You should study for your exam." (practical advice)
• Ought: "He ought to be more respectful towards others." (personal judgment)
• Should: "Employees should arrive on time for work." (general expectation)

Conclusion

In conclusion, while ought and should are both used to express obligation, they have distinct differences in terms of meaning, usage, formality, subjectivity, flexibility, and examples. Understanding these nuances can help you use these modal verbs effectively in your communication and writing.