we ought to consider

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we ought to consider" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something should be thought about or taken into account in a discussion or decision-making process. Example: "In light of the recent developments, we ought to consider alternative strategies to achieve our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

So we ought to consider this very seriously.

The New York Times

Perhaps we ought to consider as well another time-tested method of assessing teachers.

The New York Times

We ought to consider doing much the same now with the auto industry.

The New York Times

One adviser stepped up and said, "We ought to consider who the tax is going to impact".

The New York Times

If there are pieces you read in your local papers or online you think we ought to consider, we'd love to hear from you.

The New York Times

"If they've got ideas that will make our legislation better, we ought to consider that," said Rep. Allen Boyd Jr. (D-Fla)., leader of the Blue Dogs.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

It's not something we like to think about, but there comes a time in our lives when we really ought to consider -- what happens to our stuff after we die?

Huffington Post

Perhaps earpieces can be seen as a less obtrusive resource than halting a scene to shout, "Line!" Maybe we also ought to consider degrees of difficulty, in the way that judges at a diving or a figure skating competition might.

The Guardian

We therefore ought to consider it an individual's right to access the profiles and scores companies use to create every personalized message and discount the individual receives," the report adds.

TechCrunch

So sure, we can start to consider massively overpriced college education a personal investment, if that will make us feel better about something that costs a lot more than it used to, but we still ought to consider the changing price of college a pretty disturbing trend.

Huffington Post

Car: 2002 Ford Escape Deal: $1,000 cash back or 2.9% financing (first payment delayed until Jan . 1 2003) As we told you a few weeks ago, the Ford Escape isn't our all-time favorite small SUV, and we think you ought to consider one of the wagons in our coverage if you're thinking of any SUV in this petite class.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we ought to consider", ensure the context provides a clear reason why the consideration is necessary or beneficial. This strengthens the persuasive impact of your statement.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "ought to" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Opt for "should" or "need to" in informal settings for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we ought to consider" functions as a recommendation or suggestion, urging a group (represented by "we") to engage in a process of evaluation or deliberation. This is evident in Ludwig's examples where the phrase introduces new ideas or perspectives to be taken into account.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

23%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we ought to consider" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for suggesting contemplation or assessment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for introducing ideas and advocating for specific actions. It finds its place mostly in the neutral to formal language of news, science and academic discourse. While versatile, "we ought to consider" carries a weight of formality that may not suit all conversations. Remember to utilize alternatives like "we should consider" or "let's consider" to suit the context and maintain a natural tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we should consider

Replaces "ought to" with the more common "should", making the suggestion slightly less formal.

we need to consider

Emphasizes the necessity of consideration, suggesting it's important to think about something.

it is worth considering

Shifts the focus to the inherent value of considering something, rather than a direct suggestion.

we might consider

Introduces a degree of possibility or tentativeness in the suggestion.

let's consider

Offers a more collaborative tone, inviting joint consideration.

we could consider

Suggests an option for consideration, without strong emphasis.

it would be wise to consider

Highlights the prudence of considering something, suggesting a beneficial outcome.

we have to consider

Stresses the obligation to consider something, implying a mandatory aspect.

we must consider

Similar to "have to", but carries a stronger sense of obligation or urgency.

we propose to consider

More formal, suggesting a formal proposition or intention to consider something.

FAQs

How can I use "we ought to consider" in a sentence?

You can use "we ought to consider" to suggest that something should be thought about or taken into account. For example, "We ought to consider the environmental impact of our actions".

What's the difference between "we ought to consider" and "we should consider"?

"We ought to consider" and "we should consider" are very similar in meaning. "Should" is generally more common and slightly less formal than "ought to".

Are there any alternatives to "we ought to consider" that I can use?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "we need to consider", "it is worth considering", or "let's consider", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "we ought to consider"?

It's appropriate to use "we ought to consider" when you want to suggest something in a relatively formal or thoughtful manner. It's suitable for professional settings, academic discussions, or when addressing serious topics.