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Possible meaning of "should be" and "shouldn't be"?
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Viceidol  #489370  Sun, 16 Mar 08 02:46 AM

She should be/ought to be at John's place.

What are the possible meanings of this sentence? I think this sentence could mean "It is possible that she is at John's place." or "It is necessary for her to be at John's place."

She shouldn't be/ought not to be at John's place.

What are the possible meanings of this sentence? I think this sentence could mean "Maybe she is not at John's place." or "It is not suitable for her to be at John's place."

Am I correct? Please give me your opinion, thank you!


 
  
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Mister Micawber  #489392  Sun, 16 Mar 08 03:37 AM
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My reaction:

She should be/ought to be at John's place = She is probably at John's place or She is obliged to be at John's place.

She shouldn't be at John's place = She is probably not at John's place or She is obliged not to be at John's place.

She ought not to be at John's place = She is obliged not to be at John's place
  
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'The question is,' said Humpty Dumpty, 'which is to be master-- that's all.'
Viceidol  #489418  Sun, 16 Mar 08 05:40 AM

Thank you very much! I understand now.
  
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