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oughtn't. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
oughtn't, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
oughtn't in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
oughtn't you have here. The definition of the word
oughtn't will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
oughtn't, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
From ought + -n't.
Pronunciation
Verb
oughtn't
- (UK, Ireland, Commonwealth) (US, Philippines, dated, rare) ought not (negative auxiliary[1]).
Usage notes
Oughtn't has become rare in North America, and ought not has itself become much less common than it once was there as well.
Coordinate terms
See also
References