“I have to + verb” is used when you talk about things you must do. It shows obligation or responsibility in daily life. We use it for work, home, rules, or important tasks. For example, when your boss gives you work, you say, “I have to finish this report.” At home, you may say, “I have to cook dinner.”
This structure is very common in spoken English. Native speakers use it all the time. The verb after “have to” is always in its base form. It does not change. You can use it in the present, past, or future by changing have. Learning this helps you sound clear, confident, and natural in conversations.
◎ Important Points
- Use have to for duty, rules, or strong need
- The verb after to is always base form
- Use it in daily speaking situations
- It is different from “want to”
- Negative form: don’t have to (no obligation)
- Question form: Do you have to…?
➤Key Concept
Sentence Structure
Subject + have to + base verb
Example:
I have to wake up early tomorrow.
Simple Explanation:
Use “have to” when something is necessary, not optional.
Speaking Tip:
Say it smoothly: I hafta wake up early (natural spoken English).
➤ Common Mistakes To Avoid
| Common Mistake | Wrong Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Using verb + s | I have to goes home | I have to go home |
| Missing “to” | I have finish work | I have to finish work |
| Wrong tense | I has to work | I have to work |
| Using past verb | I have to went | I have to go |
| Confusing meaning | I have to watch TV | I want to watch TV |
➤ Examples
- I have to attend a meeting today.
- She has to take her medicine.
- We have to clean the house.
- I have to leave early for the airport.
- He has to submit the form today.
- I have to call my parents.
- They have to follow the rules.
- I have to buy groceries after work.
- Do you have to work on Sunday?
➤ Practice Examples
A. Fill in the blanks
- I ___ ___ wake up early tomorrow.
- She ___ ___ finish her homework.
B. Correct the sentence
- I have to goes office.
- He have to pay the bill.
C. Speak Aloud
- I have to improve my English.
- I have to practice speaking every day.
