ought to be present

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ought to be present" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a moral obligation or expectation that someone should be in attendance at a particular event or situation. Example: "All team members ought to be present at the meeting to discuss the upcoming project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Such a property ought to be present in any system that has evolved, they say.

MIT Technology Review

But the injunction that one ought to be present for work doesn't explain what that work — politics — involves.

The New Yorker

When Trump turned on the Pope, no religious leaders were brought in to point out that this was an attack on the notion, essential to politics in South Carolina, that faith ought to be present in the public square.

The New Yorker

That's important because scientists have developed several systems in which evolution takes place, the most famous being the various attempts to make artificial life using computer code and silicon chips..Such a signature ought to be present both on Earth and in silico.

MIT Technology Review

While the documents released by Downing Street show that Claire Sumner from No 10 did call Black Rod, Downing Street says her questions about the prime minister's role were guided by a 1994 note which suggested that the he ought to be present when the coffin arrived at Westminster Hall for the lying in state.

The Guardian

Yet when we look at some of the oldest star clusters of all, we find a population of stars that are bluer and hotter than ought to be present.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

This is, too, one of the pieces City Opera ought to be presenting in English.

The New York Times - Arts

Scientific societies, such as the International Society for Stem Cell Research ISSCRR) and national stem-cell organizations, should consider whether MSC studies ought to be presented at stem-cell conferences under the MSC umbrella.

Nature

And if "understanding" his actions is necessary to prevent further destruction, it ought to be presented in a clear attitude of fierce disapproval.

The New York Times - Magazine

But interleaving as an educational strategy ought to be presented to teachers with some caveats.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

This "top-down" approach to science reflected Lyell's position on how science ought to be presented to the pubic.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience. While grammatically correct, "ought to be present" is less common than "should be present" and can sound formal or even archaic in some contexts. Choose the phrasing that best suits your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "ought to be present" in informal settings where a more relaxed tone is appropriate. Using "should be present" or "needs to be there" can be better alternatives in casual conversation or less formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ought to be present" functions as a modal expression indicating a recommendation, expectation, or obligation. It suggests that someone's presence is desirable or advisable in a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ought to be present" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a recommendation, expectation, or obligation. While correct, it carries a slightly more formal tone than alternatives like "should be present". Ludwig AI provides examples from various sources, including science, news, and academia, indicating its versatility. However, consider the audience and context when choosing between "ought to be present" and its less formal counterparts. Understanding the nuance helps ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should be present

This alternative is a more common and less formal way to express the same obligation.

must be present

This alternative conveys a stronger sense of necessity or requirement.

is required to be present

This alternative is a more formal and explicit way to state the requirement.

needs to be present

This alternative indicates a need or necessity for someone to be there.

is expected to be present

This alternative indicates an expectation, though not necessarily a strict requirement.

it is advisable to be present

This alternative suggests that being present is a good idea or recommended course of action.

it is essential to be present

This alternative highlight the crucial importance of being present

it is imperative to be present

This alternative express extreme urgency of being present

it is obligatory to be present

This alternative highlight the fact that being present is mandatory

attendance is expected

This alternative focuses on the act of attending and the expectation surrounding it.

FAQs

What is a less formal alternative to "ought to be present"?

For less formal situations, you can use alternatives like "should be present" or "needs to be there". These options are more commonly used in everyday conversation.

How does "ought to be present" differ from "must be present"?

"Ought to be present" expresses a recommendation or expectation, while "must be present" indicates a stronger requirement or necessity. The choice depends on the degree of obligation you want to convey.

In what contexts is "ought to be present" most appropriate?

"Ought to be present" is suitable in formal writing, official guidelines, or situations where a sense of duty or moral obligation is implied. For example, "All members ought to be present at the annual general meeting."

Is "ought to be present" grammatically correct?

Yes, "ought to be present" is grammatically correct. However, it's essential to ensure it aligns with the intended tone and formality of your writing. If in doubt, "should be present" is a safe and widely accepted alternative.