Complete Guide to Using “You’re supposed to + (verb)” in English

The phrase “You’re supposed to + verb” indicates an expectation, rule, or obligation that someone should follow. This construction communicates what is considered proper, required, or socially expected behavior.

“You’re supposed to” Usage Examples

Sno	English Example	Hindi Translation	Context
1	You’re supposed to keep that secret.	आपको वह रहस्य छिपाकर रखना चाहिए।	Confidentiality
2	You’re supposed to let me know when you leave.	आपको मुझे बताना चाहिए जब आप निकलें।	Communication
3	You’re supposed to stop at a red light.	आपको लाल बत्ती पर रुकना चाहिए।	Traffic rules
4	You’re supposed to unpack once you get there.	आपको वहाँ पहुँचकर सामान खोल लेना चाहिए।	Travel etiquette
5	You’re supposed to return the movies you rent on time.	आपको किराए पर ली गई फिल्में समय पर लौटानी चाहिए।	Responsibility
6	You’re supposed to remain calm.	आपको शांत रहना चाहिए।	Expected behavior
7	You’re supposed to fasten your seat belt.	आपको सीट बेल्ट बाँधनी चाहिए।	Safety rule
8	You’re supposed to invite all your friends.	आपको अपने सभी दोस्तों को आमंत्रित करना चाहिए।	Social expectation
9	You’re supposed to encourage one another.	आपको एक-दूसरे को प्रोत्साहित करना चाहिए।	Team dynamics
10	You’re supposed to decide before next Thursday.	आपको अगले गुरुवार से पहले निर्णय लेना चाहिए।	Deadline

Expanded Usage Examples

Sno	English Example	Hindi Translation
11	You’re supposed to knock before entering.	आपको अंदर आने से पहले दस्तक देनी चाहिए।
12	You’re supposed to turn off your phone in theaters.	आपको थिएटर में फोन बंद करना चाहिए।
13	You’re supposed to cover your mouth when coughing.	आपको खाँसते समय मुँह ढकना चाहिए।
14	You’re supposed to RSVP to invitations.	आपको निमंत्रण का जवाब देना चाहिए।
15	You’re supposed to tip waiters in restaurants.	आपको रेस्तरां में वेटर को टिप देनी चाहिए।

Alternative Forms with Similar Meaning

Sno	English Example	Hindi Translation
1	You are expected to arrive on time.	आपसे समय पर पहुँचने की अपेक्षा की जाती है।
2	It’s required that you wear a helmet.	यह आवश्यक है कि आप हेलमेट पहनें।
3	The rule states you must sign in.	नियम के अनुसार आपको साइन इन करना होगा।

Key Grammar Rules

• Structure:
  • “You’re supposed to” + base verb
  • ✅ Correct: “You’re supposed to attend the meeting.”
  • ❌ Incorrect: “You’re supposed to attending the meeting.”
• Negative Form:
  • “You’re not supposed to park here.”
  • Indicates prohibition
• Question Form:
  • “Am I supposed to dress formally?”
  • For clarifying expectations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ “You’re suppose to call first.”
✅ “You’re supposed to call first.” (include “d”)

❌ “You’re supposed calling back.”
✅ “You’re supposed to call back.” (use infinitive)

❌ “Your supposed to wait here.”
✅ “You’re supposed to wait here.” (correct contraction)

Cultural Usage Notes

• Formal Settings:
  • Used in workplace policies (“You’re supposed to submit reports weekly”)
• Social Norms:
  • Explains cultural expectations (“You’re supposed to remove shoes indoors”)
• Indian Context:
  • Often used with “only” for emphasis (“You’re supposed to come only at 5”)
  • Sometimes considered too direct (soften with “I think” or “maybe”)