The Best Guide to Modals in English

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The modals “must” and “have to” talk about obligation.[1]https://www.englishclub.com/grammar/verbs-modals-have-to-must-not.htm The difference between the two types of obligation is if it internal or external.

must

Must

In general, you use “must” to talk about personal opinion. This is subjective. That means, the speaker thinks it is necessary.

must

For example:

  • I must
    study; otherwise, I won’t do well on the test.

(The implication is that the speaker wants to do well on the test. Therefore, they are going to study. It is not a requirement for them to study.)

  • You must
    try this sandwich! It is so tasty!

(The implication is that you really should try the sandwich that I think is very tasty. However, if you don’t want to, you are required to.)

  • If I am going to become a professional
    basketball player, I must practice
    every day.

(The implication is that it is necessary to practice every day in order to become a professional basketball player. However, neither becoming a professional basketball player nor practicing every day is a requirement.)

Have to

In general, you use “have to” to talk about external rules or opinions. In other words, you use it when rules and other people are telling you to do something. It is not a personal opinion.

have to

For example:

  • In England, you have to drive on the left hand size of the road.

(The implication is that it is the law in England to drive on the left hand side of the road.)

  • I have to
    wear a uniform at work.

(The implication is that it a requirement to wear a uniform at work.)

  • You have
    to     wait for the stop light to turn green before you can move forward.

(It is the law that you can’t drive through a red light. You must wait for the green light to drive.)

Practice Exercises

 10%

Question 1 of 10

1. I don’t have money to pay for rent. I _______ get a job.

Question 1 of 10

Question 2 of 10

2. You ________ stop at the red light.

Question 2 of 10

Question 3 of 10

3. The children __________ listen to the teacher’s rules.

Question 3 of 10

Question 4 of 10

4. She ________ stop smoking. It is not healthy for you.

Question 4 of 10

Question 5 of 10

5. He ______ return the clothes. It is too big for him.

Question 5 of 10

Question 6 of 10

6. I am going to travel overseas. I ___________ get a passport.

Question 6 of 10

Question 7 of 10

7. It is cold outside, so I _______ stay inside to stay warm.

Question 7 of 10

Question 8 of 10

8. I am not feeling good. Sorry, I _______ leave early.

Question 8 of 10

Question 9 of 10

9. You _________ wear a seatbelt when you drive. It is the law.

Question 9 of 10

Question 10 of 10

10. Susie can’t see very well. She _______ wear glasses to see the board in front of the classroom.

Question 10 of 10


 

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