Language
Spanish
Level
B1
Unit
Expresiones de modalidad y sentimiento
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

In Spanish, 'expresiones de obligación' are ways to say that someone must or has to do something. These expressions show necessity or obligation.

When to use it

Use these forms when you want to say that someone needs to do something, when giving advice, or when talking about general rules or responsibilities.

Key forms

  • "tener que" + infinitive (e.g., tener que estudiar)
  • "deber" + infinitive (e.g., deber trabajar)
  • "hay que" + infinitive (e.g., hay que limpiar)

Examples

Tengo que hacer la tarea.

English: I have to do the homework.

Debes beber más agua.

English: You should drink more water.

Hay que respetar las reglas.

English: One must respect the rules.

Tenemos que llegar temprano.

English: We have to arrive early.

Debo llamar a mi madre.

English: I must call my mother.

Tips

  • Use 'tener que' for personal obligations (who has to do it is clear).
  • 'Hay que' is used for general obligations (it is not specified who).
  • 'Deber' is a bit more formal or can mean 'should' (advice).

Verify this grammar point in Spanish reference sources

Cross-check the rule and examples in established native references. Each link opens in a new tab.

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