ought to be changed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ought to be changed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something should be modified or improved. Example: "The current policy on remote work ought to be changed to better accommodate employees' needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"They were friendly and open to the idea that this ought to be changed".

The New York Times

And when -- -- Q. Do you think it ought to be changed?

The New York Times

In their opinion, it ought to be changed the same way it was passed: by referendum.

The New York Times

The list Q. Do you think it ought to be changed in that provision?

The New York Times

'Don't you think that ought to be changed?' he asked as the crowd applauded".

The New York Times

That got me to thinking that there had to be other rules that ought to be changed".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

And I think there's a general agreement in many parts of the world now that there ought to be changes in the I.M.F.

The New York Times

Given Leigh's usual rate of creation, the address ought soon to be changed to "Untitled 2016" – but it won't be.

The Guardian - Film

Watching this vigorous, seemingly possessed actor at work, you feel that the name of this creaking vehicle ought really to be changed to "Robert".If Mr Hirsch's jeu is all about demonstration, entertainment and eye-catching bravura, Mr Bouquet's skill is so subtle as to be almost invisible.

The Economist

When Britain's combined code on corporate governance - the rulebook on how public listed companies ought to be run - was changed in July 2003, the move was designed to prevent an Enron-style scandal in Britain.

The Guardian - Business

Daniel Carmon, an ambassador at the Israeli mission, said that while there ought to be a change in attitude at the United Nations, no one expected it to occur soon.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ought to be changed" when suggesting a modification is necessary due to a recognized standard, rule, or principle.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "ought to be changed" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. In less formal situations, consider using alternatives like "should be changed" or "needs changing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ought to be changed" functions as a modal verb construction indicating a recommendation or necessity for modification. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, further supporting its use in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ought to be changed" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that suggests a recommendation or necessity for modification. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and examples show it primarily used in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While appropriate for formal settings, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual conversation. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the subject needing alteration and the reason for the suggested change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should be modified

Replaces "ought to" with the more common "should", indicating a recommendation for change.

needs to be altered

Focuses on the necessity of change, using "needs to be" instead of "ought to".

requires modification

Emphasizes the requirement for change, using a more formal tone.

is in need of revision

Highlights the need for a thorough review and alteration.

warrants a revision

Suggests that something justifies being revised.

demands an amendment

Puts a stronger emphasis on the urgency and importance of the change.

calls for reformation

Suggests the need for a substantial or fundamental change.

should undergo transformation

Implies a more profound and comprehensive change is needed.

is due for an overhaul

Indicates that something is ready to be completely repaired or reorganized.

must be adjusted

Focuses on the necessity of change by adjusting it to fit requirements.

FAQs

What does "ought to be changed" mean?

The phrase "ought to be changed" suggests that something should be modified or altered, typically because it is not working as intended or needs improvement. It implies a degree of obligation or recommendation.

What can I say instead of "ought to be changed"?

You can use alternatives like "should be modified", "needs to be altered", or "requires modification" depending on the context.

Is "ought to be changed" formal or informal?

"Ought to be changed" leans toward formal usage. In more casual contexts, simpler phrases like "should be changed" or "needs to be fixed" might be more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "ought to be changed"?

It's appropriate to use "ought to be changed" when discussing policies, rules, laws, or systems that need improvement or correction, especially in formal or professional settings.