Be supposed to
Definition
Be supposed to expresses what is expected, required, arranged or generally believed. The exact meaning depends on context, but the form is always a form of be + supposed to + base verb.
Examples
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You are supposed to wear a helmet here.
The expression states a rule or expectation.
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The train is supposed to arrive at six.
The expression describes an arrangement or timetable expectation.
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This restaurant is supposed to be excellent.
The expression reports a generally held belief.
Supposed to vs. must
You are supposed to submit the form today.
This refers to a rule, arrangement or external expectation.
You must submit the form today.
Must presents the requirement more directly and forcefully.
Be supposed to often reports an existing expectation. Must usually states or emphasizes an obligation.
The negative often means something is not permitted or not expected
Be not supposed to commonly expresses prohibition, but it can also mean that an event is not expected according to a plan or belief.
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You are not supposed to touch that switch.
The negative expresses a prohibition.
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The package is not supposed to arrive until Friday.
The negative describes the expected timing.
Common mistakes
You supposed to sign here.
You are supposed to sign here.
The expression requires a form of be.
We are suppose to wait outside.
We are supposed to wait outside.
Use the past-participle form supposed.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly expresses an expected rule?
The pattern is be supposed to + base verb.Which sentence expresses a prohibition?
Are not supposed to park states that parking is not permitted.Which sentence reports a generally held belief?
Is supposed to be reports what people generally believe or say.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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