Be supposed to (Você Aprende Agora) |
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3:02 |
A video explaining the different uses of this peculiar passive phrase:
BE SUPPOSED TO
"Be supposed to" can mean "they say".
- It's supposed to be a barbecue
= They say it's going to be a barbecue
- It's supposed to rain later
= They say it's going to rain
"Be supposed" to can mean "have to" or "should".
- I'm supposed to work tomorrow
= I should work tomorrow
- He's not supposed to eat chocolate
= He can not eat chocolate
"Be supposed to" can contrast what should happen with what does or will happen.
- I'm supposed to be studying for an exam, but I'm not
- I'm not supposed to stay out late, but maybe I will
"Was/were supposed" to can mean what was expected didn't or won't happen.
- They were supposed to come at seven (but probably they didn't)
- I wasn't supposed to go by myself (but I'm going)
"Was/were supposed to" can mean "intended to" (wanted to, had that intention).
- He was going to give us directions, but he didn't
- I wasn't going to go to the party, but I guess I will