A Few Tricky Things to Remember
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1. Must / Have To
Must and have to both express a necessity or requirement when used in affirmative sentences. They have the same meaning although "must" is a little stronger and more formal than "have to."
For example:
- I must study hard for my math test tomorrow.
- I have to study hard for my math test tomorrow.
When used in the negative, "must not" and "do not have to" have very different meanings. Look at these examples:
2. Must NOT
- I must not speed or I'll get a ticket! (something that is not allowed; prohibition)
3. Do NOT Have To
- I do not have to study hard for my math test tomorrow. (lack of necessity; not required; optional)
To Review
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Affirmative |
Negative |
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Must = necessity, requirement |
Must NOT = prohibition (not allowed) |
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Have to = necessity, requirement |
Do NOT have to = lack of necessity (optional) |
Try this Sorting Activity and Quiz Group to check your understanding.
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Click the red card to view it. Then, decide whether the sentence expresses a necessity, lack of necessity, or prohibition. Drag the card to the correct category. |
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4. May
Click the play arrow above to listen.
May is used to make a polite request or give permission.
For example:
- May I walk with you to the car?
- May I ask you for a favor?
- Maria, you may borrow my coat if you're cold.
- Your son may come with us to the park if he wants to.
Remember: In a question, MAY can only be used with 1st person (May I, May we...?).
NEVER say: May you give me a ride home? May he come with us to the park?, etc.
Try this Quiz Group (Sorting Activity) to check your understanding.
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Polite requests using "may." Click the red card to view it. Then, decide whether the sentence is grammatically correct. Drag the card to the correct category. |
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