In everyday English, we often use certain expressions that are both familiar and versatile. One such phrase is ‘that ought to do it.’ This phrase may sound casual or even a bit vague, but it carries a precise and practical meaning depending on the situation. While it may seem like a simple comment, ‘that ought to do it’ is actually a reflection of confidence, conclusion, or sufficiency in a given task or process. Understanding what this expression means and how to use it can enrich your communication skills, especially in spoken English.
Definition of That Ought to Do It
The phrase that ought to do it generally means that should be enough or that should accomplish the goal. It is often used after completing a task, indicating that no further effort is needed. The word ought is a modal verb that expresses duty, expectation, or likelihood, similar to the word should. When combined in the full phrase, it conveys a sense of confidence that the current action or effort has achieved the desired result.
Breakdown of the Phrase
- That– Refers to the action or step just taken.
- Ought– Indicates expectation or probability.
- To do it– Means to complete or solve the task at hand.
So, when someone says, ‘That ought to do it,’ they are essentially saying, ‘What I’ve just done should be enough to complete the task or fix the problem.’
Common Contexts for Using the Phrase
This expression is frequently used in casual conversation, particularly in situations involving hands-on tasks or problem-solving. Here are a few examples where this phrase naturally fits:
- After fixing something: I’ve tightened the screw. That ought to do it.
- After giving instructions: Just follow those steps carefully. That ought to do it.
- After offering help: I’ve explained everything. That ought to do it for now.
- After completing a repair: I’ve patched the leak. That ought to do it until we get a permanent fix.
In each case, the speaker is expressing a belief that their recent action is sufficient to solve a problem or fulfill a purpose.
Synonyms and Similar Expressions
There are other phrases that carry similar meanings to that ought to do it. They may vary slightly in tone or formality, but they serve the same communicative purpose. These include:
- That should do the trick.
- That should be enough.
- That’ll work.
- I think we’re good now.
- That should cover it.
These alternatives can be used interchangeably in many situations, although that ought to do it often carries a slightly more formal or thoughtful tone.
Grammatical Structure
The phrase follows a modal verb pattern, where ought to is followed by the base form of a verb. In this case, do is the verb, and it is the object. Here’s the grammatical structure:
Subject + ought to + base verb + object.
Example: That+ought to+do+it.
This construction is typical of modal verbs, and it expresses logical necessity or expectation without being too forceful.
Tone and Register
The tone of that ought to do it is usually calm, reassuring, and conclusive. It is not overly formal, but it’s not slang either. It’s commonly used in both personal and professional conversations. For example, a technician might use it after fixing an appliance, or a teacher might say it after providing instructions to students. It is polite, indirect, and non-committal, which makes it useful in uncertain situations where you believe a task is complete but still leave room for further action if needed.
Practical Examples in Conversation
Example 1: Home Repair
Person A: Did you manage to fix the cabinet door?
Person B: Yeah, I replaced the hinge and tightened the screws. That ought to do it.
Example 2: Workplace Scenario
Colleague 1: I’ve sent out the reminder email and updated the schedule.
Colleague 2: Great. That ought to do it for now.
Example 3: Medical Advice
Patient: I’ve been taking the prescribed medication and resting well.
Doctor: Good. That ought to do it, but let’s check again next week.
In these conversations, the phrase functions as a polite and hopeful statement that the effort made is likely sufficient.
How the Phrase Reflects Mindset
Using that ought to do it often reflects a practical and optimistic mindset. The speaker is conveying trust in their actions without sounding overly certain or dismissive. It allows for flexibility it suggests completion but leaves space for future adjustments if needed. This is part of what makes the phrase so useful in real-world conversation: it acknowledges that things may not be perfect, but they are likely good enough for now.
Regional and Cultural Use
The phrase is widely used in many English-speaking countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. While it’s mostly used in spoken language, it may also appear in casual writing such as emails, instruction manuals, or dialogue in books and films. It’s part of the broader category of polite modal expressions that are deeply embedded in English communication.
When Not to Use It
Although that ought to do it is versatile, there are times when it may not be appropriate. For example:
- In highly formal settings where precise language is required.
- When certainty is needed instead of probability.
- When the situation is critical and calls for confirmation or evidence, not assumption.
In such cases, more definitive expressions like That will do it or The task is complete may be more suitable.
The phrase that ought to do it is a valuable part of conversational English. It conveys satisfaction, sufficiency, and polite confidence in the outcome of an action. From daily chores to professional settings, this expression helps communicate that a task has likely been completed successfully. It balances assurance with humility, making it a perfect choice for situations where we believe something is done but we’re open to checking again if needed. For those learning English or refining their usage, mastering phrases like this can greatly improve clarity and natural flow in speech.