L3 C1 M2- Modal verbs:should, ought to

Modal verbs

Subject + Should / Ought to + Infinitive verb

Affirmative

SHOULD

I think Mexican politicians shouldn't receive extra monetary compensation.

We use should and shouldn't to give advice or to talk about what we think is right or wrong. This modal is used to express an opinion. In other words, "what I think is best for you to do."

Opinion

We think that people who commit vandalism in cities should be sent to jail.

I think you should talk to your mother about this.

Subject + Should not/ shouldn't + Infinitive verb

Subject + ought not to/ oughtn't to + Infinitive verb

Negative

Advice

Your father thinks that you shouldn't study mechanical engineering because it isn't a well-paid job.

In most cases should and ought to are used interchangeably to express advice, obligation or duty.

We think you ought to get checked by the doctor as you're not feeling well.

OUGHT TO

Should+ Subject + Infinitive verb + ?

Opinion

Interrogative

Ought to is more formal and it is used to express an objective truth.

I think you ought to study harder, it will be a difficult exam.

Advice