Describe the use of 'should' and 'ought to' to express the future tense.

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Describe the use of 'should' and 'ought to' to express the future tense.

In English, the future tense can be expressed using various forms and auxiliary verbs. While 'should' and 'ought to' are primarily used to express obligation or advice in the present or past, they can also be used to convey future actions or events. Let's explore the use of 'should' and 'ought to' in the future tense.

1. 'Should' in the future tense:
When 'should' is used to express the future tense, it indicates a recommendation, expectation, or probability. It suggests that something is likely to happen or that it is the right thing to do in the future. Here are a few examples:

- I should finish my homework tonight. (It is expected or recommended that I will complete my homework in the future.)
- She should arrive at the airport by 6 PM. (It is expected or probable that she will reach the airport by 6 PM.)
- They should start saving money for their trip. (It is recommended or advisable for them to begin saving money for their trip in the future.)

2. 'Ought to' in the future tense:
Similar to 'should,' 'ought to' expresses a sense of obligation or advisability. When used in the future tense, 'ought to' suggests that something is expected or recommended to happen in the future. Consider the following examples:

- We ought to visit our grandparents next weekend. (It is expected or recommended that we will visit our grandparents in the future.)
- He ought to study harder for the upcoming exam. (It is advisable or expected that he will increase his efforts in studying for the exam in the future.)
- They ought to start planning for retirement. (It is recommended or expected that they will begin planning for retirement in the future.)

It is important to note that 'should' and 'ought to' in the future tense do not indicate certainty but rather express likelihood, advisability, or expectation. They are often used to give suggestions, recommendations, or express what is considered the right course of action in the future.

In summary, 'should' and 'ought to' can be used to express the future tense by indicating recommendations, expectations, or probabilities. They convey what is likely to happen or what is considered the right thing to do in the future. However, it is essential to remember that these forms do not guarantee certainty but rather express a sense of obligation or advisability.