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ought

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ought

Main Entry:: ¹ought
Pronunciation:: \ˈȯt\
Function:: verbal auxiliary
Etymology:: Middle English oughte (1st & 3d singular present indicative), from oughte, 1st & 3d singular past indicative & subjunctive of owen to own, owe — more at owe
Date:: 12th century

—used to express obligation <ought to pay our debts>, advisability <ought to take care of yourself>, natural expectation <ought to be here by now>, or logical consequence <the result ought to be infinity>

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