Have to / Don't have to

Have to / Don't have to

What is it?

You use have to when you are saying that something is necessary or required, or must happen. If you do not have to do something, it is not necessary or required. Examples: - He had to go to Germany. - We'll have to find a taxi. - You have to be careful what you say on telly. - They didn't have to pay tax.

Have to is a construction (structure). It is not a modal verb. We use auxiliary verbs do and does to form questions and negatives. Examples: Positive - I have to work very unsociable hours. - She has to wear a uniform. Negative - I don't have to work at weekends. - John doesn't have to do any work at home. Question - Do I have to pay in advance? - Does your father have to travel a lot at his job?

How do we form statements, questions and answers with ‘have to’? Study the grammar reference chart below.