"Have to" or "Don't Have to"

"Have To" - Expressing Obligation( Necessary) :

When we say "has to" or "Have to do something, we say that it's necessary, required, or obligatory to do that activity. It implies there's no choice; it must be done.

Examples:

• I have to go to work every day.

• Students have to complete their assignments on time.

• You have to pay your bills before the due date.

"Don't Have To" - Expressing Lack of Obligation (Not necessary) :

"Don't have to" or "doesn't have to" suggest the absence of obligation. It means something is optional, and there's no requirement to do it.

Examples:

• She doesn't have to attend the meeting if she doesn't want to. (She can but its not necessary)

• You don't have to bring a gift to the party, but it's a nice gesture.

• They don't have to wear uniforms to school; it's not mandatory.

In summary, "have to" indicates necessity, while "don't have to" signifies that there's no necessity; it's a matter of choice. Understanding the difference between these phrases is essential for clear communication in English, whether you're discussing responsibilities or permissions. So, the next time you encounter these expressions, you'll know exactly what they mean!

Games and activities

Practice the use of "have to" or "don't have to" by completing the sentences in the game below.