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How to identify modal verbs of necessity in a sentence?

tefave4717
tefave4717
How to identify modal verbs of necessity in a sentence?
Hope you're doing well! My daughter, Liza, is trying to identify the right modal verb in sentences like "You ___ bring your passport to the interview" and "Students ___ wear uniforms at this school." Do you have any tips or tricks to help her understand when to use "must" versus "have to"?
tefave4717_
0
Last update: 3 weeks ago
1 answers
Lauren P
Lauren P
Lauren P - Tutor account
Near Native Speaker
Philippines

Hope you're doing well too! It’s fantastic that Liza is working on modal verbs!

When it comes to choosing between "must" and "have to," here’s a simple way to help her understand the difference:

  1. "Must" is used when the obligation comes from the speaker's personal opinion or decision. It expresses something that the speaker feels is necessary.
    • Example: "You must bring your passport to the interview." (This is something I think is important or necessary.)
  2. "Have to" is used when the obligation comes from an external source—like rules, laws, or authority figures. It’s a requirement set by someone else, not the speaker.
    • Example: "Students have to wear their IDs." (This is a rule imposed by the school, not by the speaker.)

Tips to Remember:

  • "Must": Think of it as a personal necessity or strong advice from the speaker.
  • "Have to": Use it when talking about rules, regulations, or requirements made by someone else.

She can practice by asking herself: Is this something I think is necessary (must), or is it a rule from someone else (have to)?

Thank you and hope this helps!

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Last update: 3 weeks ago
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