be supposed to: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "be supposed to" is a verb phrase that is used to express obligations, expectations, or duties. It is often used to describe what is expected or required of someone, based on societal norms, rules, or agreements. The phrase implies that there is an established or prescribed set of actions, behaviors, or outcomes that one should adhere to. It can be used in present, past, or future tenses to convey different meanings and time frames. The idiom can also be used to talk about things that are assumed or believed to be true, even if they may not be. The phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. "Be supposed to" is often followed by an infinitive verb phrase to specify the expected action or outcome. The idiom can be modified or negated to convey different nuances or shades of meaning.

The idiom "be supposed to" is a versatile verb phrase in the English language that conveys obligations, expectations, or duties. It is often used to describe what is expected or required of someone based on societal norms, rules, or agreements. The phrase implies a prescribed set of actions, behaviors, or outcomes that individuals should adhere to. It can be used in different tenses to convey various meanings and time frames.

For example, in the present tense, the phrase "am/is/are supposed to" indicates an ongoing obligation or expectation. Using this phrase, one can communicate what is expected of them in a given situation. For instance, "I am supposed to finish my work by the end of the day" implies a responsibility to complete tasks within a specified timeframe.

In the past tense, "was/were supposed to" indicates an expectation or obligation that existed in the past. This usage highlights what was expected or required at a specific point in time. For instance, "He was supposed to pick up the groceries yesterday" indicates a duty or arrangement that was not fulfilled as planned.

Similarly, the phrase can be used in the future tense, such as "will be supposed to," to express upcoming expectations or obligations. This usage suggests what is anticipated or required in the future. For example, "We will be supposed to submit our reports by next week" conveys the expected action of submitting reports within a designated timeframe.

Additionally, "be supposed to" can also be used to discuss assumptions or beliefs, even if they may not be true. In this usage, the phrase indicates an understanding or customary belief about a certain situation or condition. For instance, "She is supposed to be an expert in the field" suggests a widely held belief or assumption about someone's expertise, regardless of its accuracy or veracity.

It is worth noting that the idiom "be supposed to" can be modified or negated to convey different nuances or shades of meaning. Modifying the phrase with adverbs like "probably" or "supposedly" adds uncertainty or skepticism to the expectation or assumption being expressed. On the other hand, negating the phrase with terms like "not" or "wasn't/weren't supposed to" indicates a deviation from the expected or prescribed action or outcome.

The idiom "have it coming" is related to the idiom "be supposed to" in the sense that both phrases imply consequences or outcomes based on actions or behaviors. "Have it coming" is often used to suggest that someone deserves or has earned a particular outcome, usually negative. This can be seen as an extension or result of what one is "supposed to" do or not do. For example, if someone consistently breaks the rules or acts inappropriately, they can be said to "have it coming" when faced with negative consequences or reactions from others.

Similarly, the idiom "play one's part" is also related to the idea of fulfilling responsibilities or expectations, which is inherent in the idiom "be supposed to." When someone "plays their part," they are fulfilling their role or doing what is expected of them in a particular situation. This can be seen as a manifestation or application of the obligations or expectations implied by the idiom "be supposed to." For example, in a team project, each member is "supposed to" contribute and "play their part" in order to achieve the desired outcome.

The idiom "be supposed to" encompasses the notions of obligations, expectations, and duties, providing a framework for understanding and articulating societal norms, rules, and agreements. It can be used in various tenses and contexts to convey different meanings and time frames. The related idioms "have it coming" and "play one’s part" further expand on the concept of fulfilling responsibilities and facing consequences or rewards based on actions or behaviors. Together, these idioms contribute to the richness and versatility of the English language, allowing individuals to express and navigate the complexities of social interactions and expectations.