ought to be given priority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ought to be given priority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance or urgency of a particular issue or task that should be prioritized over others. Example: "In our current project, environmental concerns ought to be given priority to ensure sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

As a consequence, it dilutes support for public policies that could address the lack of upward mobility among children born at the bottom, who ought to be given priority.

The New York Times

For example, Chrétien de Troyes in Perceval says it was "the highest that God has created and commanded"; a sixteenth-century French knight, Brantôme, called chevallerie "the religion of honor" and claimed that it ought to be given priority over all other forms of culture.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Orphans and girls were to be given priority.

The Guardian

If you're trying to do a project that concentrates housing near transportation and jobs, that ought to be given high priority".

The New York Times

Also, adjustments to current conditions and contexts of each country subjected to a new recommendation ought to be given higher priority.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

If there is to be additional expenditure on forest roads, priority ought to be given to better maintaining existing roads and bridges.

The New York Times

Disagreement regarding Nietzsche's notebooks, also known as his Nachlass, centers around the degree of interpretive priority which ought to be given to the unpublished versus the published manuscripts.

SEP

Compensation ought to be given.

The Guardian - Sport

Her parents ought to be given a gold cup.

The Guardian - Books

Today, it ought to be giving us nightmares.

The New York Times

Emergencies are given priority.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ought to be given priority", ensure the context clearly establishes why the subject deserves prioritization. Providing a rationale enhances the persuasiveness of your statement.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "ought to be given priority" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "should be prioritized" or "needs attention" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ought to be given priority" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a recommendation or obligation regarding the allocation of importance. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ought to be given priority" is a grammatically sound expression used to recommend that something be treated as more important than other things. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability. It finds its niche in formal settings, particularly in discussions of policy, ethics, and strategy. While the phrase is acceptable, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal settings. Though not among the most frequently used phrases, its correct application adds a touch of considered judgment to writing, emphasizing the reasoned allocation of importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Should be prioritized

Replaces "ought to" with "should", a more common modal verb expressing recommendation or obligation.

Needs to be given precedence

Substitutes "priority" with "precedence", emphasizing the act of coming before others.

Must be prioritized

Uses "must" to convey a stronger sense of necessity or obligation.

Demands prioritization

Shifts from passive to active voice, making the need for prioritization more direct.

Warrants immediate attention

Emphasizes the urgency of the matter, suggesting it requires swift action.

Is of utmost importance

Focuses on the high level of importance, rather than the act of prioritizing.

Is a matter of urgency

Highlights the time-sensitive nature of the issue.

Requires preferential treatment

Indicates that the subject should receive special consideration or advantages.

Take priority

Shortened and more direct, focusing on the action of prioritizing.

Should be at the forefront

Suggests that the issue needs to be in a prominent or leading position.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ought to be given priority" to sound less formal?

For less formal situations, consider using phrases like "should be prioritized", "needs attention", or "should take precedence".

What's the difference between "ought to be given priority" and "must be given priority"?

"Ought to be given priority" implies a recommendation or moral obligation, whereas "must be given priority" suggests a stronger necessity or requirement.

Is "ought to be given priority" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "ought to be given priority" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard structure of a modal verb phrase with a passive voice construction.

In what contexts is "ought to be given priority" most appropriate?

The phrase "ought to be given priority" is typically suitable for formal writing, reports, and discussions where a sense of recommendation or reasoned importance is needed. It's often used in contexts such as policy discussions, ethical considerations, and strategic planning.