have to

phrasal-verb
UK: /hæf tə/
US: /hæv tə/

  1. Used to say that something is necessary or must be done.

    1. I have to go now it's getting late. [ ] [ ]
    2. We have to finish this project by Friday to meet the deadline. [ ] [ ]

  2. Used to indicate an obligation or duty, often imposed by someone else.

    1. You have to listen to your parents. [ ] [ ]
    2. She said I have to clean my room before I can go out with friends. [ ] [ ]

  3. Expressing a strong recommendation or suggestion.

    1. You have to try this new pizza place! [ ] [ ]
    2. If you visit Rome, you have to see the Colosseum. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

must should

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "have to" in English means: Used to say that something is necessary or must be done., Used to indicate an obligation or duty, often imposed by someone else., Expressing a strong recommendation or suggestion..

The phonetic transcription of "have to" is /hæf tə/ in British English and /hæv tə/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "have to": must, should.

Example usage of "have to": "I have to go now it's getting late.". More examples on the page.