Expressing Obligation
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- Javaid Ahmed Solangi
- Jul 03,2024
Expressing Obligation
Overview
When it is necessary or obligatory to do something, you express obligation. This guide explains how to express obligation in various contexts and highlights important distinctions between key terms.
Expressing Obligation in the Present:
- I have to finish my work before this evening.
- I have got to learn English if I want to live in the USA.
- I must see the doctor soon because I don't feel well.
- It is obligatory that I stop when the traffic light turns red.
- It is necessary that I take a taxi. I'm late.
Expressing Obligation in the Past:
- I had to work extra hours to pay my bills.
Expressing Obligation in the Future:
- I'll have to borrow money.
Key Points to Remember:
The difference between "have to" and "must":
- "Have to" indicates that someone else has imposed the obligation.
- Example: I have to attend the meeting because my boss asked me to.
- "Must" suggests an internal or self-imposed necessity.
- Example: I must finish this project to meet my personal goals.
The simple past of "must" is "had to":
- Example: Yesterday, I had to stay late to complete the report.
The simple future of "must" is "will have to":
- Example: Next week, I will have to start the new training program.
"Should" also expresses obligation, but differs from "must" and "have to":
- "Must" / "Have to" = 100% obligation (a necessity).
- Example: When the traffic light turns red, you must stop.
- "Should" = 50% obligation (more of a recommendation than a necessity).
- Example: You look tired. You should have a rest.
Dialogue:
Officer:
Don’t you know that you must stop when the traffic lights are red?
Driver:
Sorry, officer. I was so absent-minded that I didn't notice the lights.
Officer:
Well, you’ll have to pay a fine!