Indicating obligation and willingness
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Using adjectives to indicate obligation | page 4 of 6 |
Indicating suggested obligation
With suggested obligation, the person referred to (often the hearer) has more choice. This can be glossed as advice and hints.
Here is a list of adjectives which are typically used to offer advice and hints:
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Natural gas is desirable from an environmental viewpoint because it produces less air pollution than coal or oil, although it could cost up to 25 per cent more. (SCMP 29/8/92)
On Monday evenings from 7:15 to 8:30 a panel of solicitors is in attendance and may be consulted on legal matters. It is advisable to arrive early. (Bank of English)
Note that while supposed looks like the past participle of the verb to suppose, for teaching purposes, it makes more sense to treat it as an adjective when it is used to make suggestions or give advice.
You are supposed to grease the tin before putting the mixture in.
(Bank of English)The barges are supposed to dump only at three designated areas - near Cheung Chau, in Mirs Bay and east of the Ninepin Islands. (SCMP 11/06/92)
Sometimes the rather old-fashioned phrase in honour bound is used to advise the hearer that she ought to do something:
You are in honour bound to tell the police about this.
Introduction
Indicating suggested obligation
