In daily English, we often say “I have something to + verb” when we want to talk about a task, responsibility, or plan. It shows that you need to do an action.
For example, if you are busy, you can say, “I have something to finish.” If your friend calls you, you might say, “Sorry, I have something to do.”
This structure is very common in real conversations at home, at work, and with friends. It helps you sound natural and confident. Instead of giving long explanations, you can use this short and clear sentence pattern to express your responsibility or plan.
◎ Important Points
- Use this structure to talk about tasks or responsibilities.
- After “to,” always use the base form of the verb.
- You can use it in present, past, or future situations.
- It is common in polite excuses.
- You can replace “something” with “nothing,” “a lot,” or “many things.”
- It is useful in both formal and informal conversations.
➤Key Concept
✅ Sentence Structure: Subject + have/has + something + to + base verb
Example: I have something to tell you.
This structure shows that you need to do an action. The verb after “to” does not change.
Speaking Tip:
Pause slightly after “something” to sound more natural:
“I have something… to discuss.”
➤ Common Mistakes To Avoid
| Common Mistake | Wrong Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Using -ing form after “to” | I have something to doing. | I have something to do. |
| Adding extra words | I have something to do it. | I have something to do. |
| Forgetting “to” | I have something tell you. | I have something to tell you. |
| Using wrong verb form | She has something to does. | She has something to do. |
| Using “have” incorrectly | He have something to say. | He has something to say. |
➤ Examples
- I have something to finish before dinner.
- She has something to explain to you.
- We have something to discuss in the meeting.
- They have something to celebrate tonight.
- I have something to buy from the supermarket.
- He has something to fix in the car.
- I have something to ask you.
- She has something to complete before Friday.
- We have something to plan for the trip.
- I have something to check on my laptop.
➤ Practice Examples
A. Fill in the Blanks (5)
- I have something to ______ (finish).
- She has something to ______ (say).
- We have something to ______ (discuss).
- He has something to ______ (fix).
- They have something to ______ (decide).
B. Change Incorrect Sentence to Correct One (5)
- I have something to eating.
- She have something to tell.
- He has something tell you.
- We has something to do.
- They have something to does.
C. Speak This Sentence Aloud (5)
- I have something important to discuss.
- She has something special to share.
- We have something urgent to complete.
- I have something personal to talk about.
- They have something exciting to announce.
