Learning English can sometimes be tricky, especially when it comes to choosing the right words for expressing obligation.
One common confusion among learners is whether to use “must” or “have to”.
At first glance, both may look similar, but they actually follow different grammar rules and carry slightly different meanings.
In this article, we’ll learn more about when to use each expression and help you sound more fluent in daily conversations.
Difference Between “Must to” and “Have to”
At first glance, “must to” and “have to” look similar, but in reality, only one of them is grammatically correct.
“Have to” is correct and commonly used in English. It expresses necessity, obligation, or something required.
For example: “I have to finish my homework before dinner.”
“Must to” is incorrect in standard English. The modal verb “must” should never be followed by “to.”
Instead, you can simply say “must + base verb”. For example: “You must finish your homework before dinner.”
So, the key difference is:
- “Must” and “have to” both show obligation, but we never say “must to.”
- “Must” is often stronger, more formal, and used when rules or authority are involved.
- “Have to” is more common in everyday conversation and for casual use.
Examples:
- Incorrect (must to): “You must to wear a helmet.”
- Correct (must): “You must wear a helmet.”
- Correct (have to): “You have to wear a helmet when you ride a motorcycle.”
When Should You Use “Must”?
If you want to use “must,” always follow it directly with the base form of the verb.
Let’s look at correct “must” examples in different scenarios:
- Rules & obligations: “You must wear a seatbelt in the car.”
- Strong necessity: “We must finish this project by tomorrow.”
- Giving advice: “You must try the chocolate cake at that café—it’s amazing!”
- Formal instructions: “Applicants must submit their documents before Friday.”
- Certainty (logical deduction): “She’s smiling all day, she must be very happy.”
When Should You Use “Have to”?
You use “have to” in everyday English to talk about requirements, responsibilities, or something you cannot avoid.
It’s more casual than “must” and appears more often in daily speech.
Here are examples of when to use “have to”:
- Daily responsibilities: “I have to wake up early for school.”
- External obligations (not your choice): “Employees have to wear an ID badge.”
- Future arrangements: “We have to leave by 6 a.m. to catch the train.”
- Strong necessity in casual talk: “I have to buy some groceries today.”
- Talking about rules in informal contexts: “Kids have to stay inside after dark.”
Conclusion
Now that you know the difference between “must to” and “have to,” you’re one step closer to mastering English expressions of necessity.
Remember, try using these phrases in real-life situations.
Improve your English skills with EZClass now! Also, check out the EZClass blog to discover more interesting articles.
And don't forget to share this article with your friends who are learning English!
