Navigating Question Tags with 'Am', 'May', 'Used to', 'Ought to'
"Even in the seemingly rigid world of tags, some verbs dance to a different tune, revealing the rich flexibility of English grammar."
While question tags generally follow a predictable pattern of repeating the main clause's auxiliary or modal verb, certain verbs like 'am', 'may', 'used to', and 'ought to' present intriguing exceptions. Understanding their typical usage in tags is key to mastering these nuances.
Tagging the Unique: Am, May, Used to, Ought to
For sentences beginning with 'I am', the tag is typically 'aren't I?', rather than the expected 'amn't I?' (which is virtually non-existent in standard English).
- I'm being utterly illogical, aren't I?
- I'm running late, aren't I?
When 'may' is used in the main clause, the tag often employs 'mightn't'.
- Sarah may be able to offer assistance, mightn't she?
- They may reconsider their decision, mightn't they?
The tag for 'used to' almost universally uses 'did'. The forms 'used he?' or 'usedn't he?' are now exceptionally rare.
- He used to reside in that area, did he?
- They used to frequent this establishment, did they?
Remember: While theoretically possible, 'usedn't' in a tag is largely archaic. 'Did' is the modern, common choice.
For 'ought to', the tag typically features 'shouldn't'. Less frequently, 'oughtn't' might appear.
- We ought to notify them immediately, shouldn't or (less frequent) oughtn't we?
- He ought to be more careful, shouldn't he?
"Mastering these idiosyncratic tag forms showcases a nuanced understanding of English, adding precision and naturalness to your expressions."
To test your understanding of Question Tags with Am May Used to and Ought to in English Grammar, click here to take the quiz!
