Sunday, March 07, 2010

Suppose and Supposed to



Here's an odd phrase: 'supposed to'

Have you ever wondered what it means?

When we use the word 'suppose', it means 'think':

I suppose so = I think so (but I'm not sure)


However, when we use it in the phrase 'supposed to', the meaning changes and, in fact, there is more than one meaning.


1 A rule which is often broken

Example: We are not supposed to bring our cellphones to class.

This means the rule is often broken - student often disregard the rule and bring their cellphones to class


2 Reputation

Example: He is supposed to be the best runner on the team.

People say that he is the best runner on the team



3 A rule, commitment or appointment that has been broken

Example: He is supposed to be here. Where is he? (He didn't show up)

Writing from Notes with ChatGPT

The following article has some great tips on writing from notes with ChatGPT, for Business English learners or anyone else interested. Simpl...