Have to

Definition

'Have to' is a modal auxiliary phrase used to express necessity or obligation in English. It indicates that something is required or unavoidable, often implying that there are no alternatives available. This phrase can also convey a sense of urgency or compulsion, distinguishing it from other modal auxiliaries that may express ability, permission, or possibility.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Have to' is commonly used in both spoken and written English to indicate requirements set by external circumstances or authority.
2. In its negative form, 'don't have to,' it conveys the absence of obligation, suggesting that something is optional rather than required.
3. 'Have to' can change tense, such as 'had to' for past necessity or 'will have to' for future obligations.
4. The phrase 'have to' can be used with various subjects, such as 'I have to go,' 'She has to study,' highlighting its flexibility in different contexts.
5. 'Have to' often appears in questions and negative sentences, making it a versatile modal auxiliary in everyday communication.

Review Questions

• How does the phrase 'have to' differ from other modal auxiliaries like 'must' and 'should' in terms of expressing obligation?
  • 'Have to' specifically indicates an obligation or necessity that may come from external forces, while 'must' suggests a strong personal conviction about the necessity. On the other hand, 'should' implies advisability rather than a strict obligation. Therefore, when using 'have to,' it often means there are no options available, whereas with 'must,' it can be more about personal belief, and 'should' indicates a recommendation.
• Discuss how the use of 'have to' can change tense and provide examples for past and future obligations.
  • 'Have to' can change tense to fit various time frames. For instance, in the past tense, you would say 'I had to finish my homework,' indicating an obligation that existed at that time. In future contexts, one might say 'I will have to attend the meeting,' signifying an obligation that will arise later. This versatility allows speakers to clearly convey when obligations occur.
• Evaluate the implications of using 'don't have to' in a sentence and its impact on understanding obligations.
  • Using 'don't have to' shifts the meaning from necessity to optionality, indicating that there is no obligation present. For example, saying 'You don't have to come if you don't want to' suggests that attending is completely voluntary. This changes how the listener perceives their responsibilities, giving them the freedom of choice rather than imposing an expectation. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effectively communicating levels of obligation.

Related terms

must:

'Must' is a modal auxiliary that also conveys necessity or strong obligation, often implying that the speaker believes the requirement is important.

should:

'Should' is a modal auxiliary used to suggest advisability or recommendation, which may not be as strong as 'have to' or 'must.'

ought to:

'Ought to' is another modal auxiliary similar to 'should,' indicating a recommendation but carrying a slightly stronger moral implication.