HAVE TO Meaning and
Definition
-
"Have to" is a phrase used to express compulsion or necessity. It is commonly used to indicate obligations, duties, or requirements that one is compelled or forced to fulfill.
In simple terms, "have to" implies that there is no choice or option available, and a certain action or responsibility must be undertaken. It denotes a sense of obligation imposed either by external factors, such as rules, regulations, or authorities, or by internal factors, such as personal goals, commitments, or moral values.
For example, if someone says, "I have to go to work," it means they are obligated or obliged to attend their job because it is a necessary requirement for their employment. Similarly, if a student says, "I have to study for the exam," it indicates that they are compelled to study as it is essential for their academic progress.
The phrase "have to" can also indicate an urgency or pressing need for something to be done. For instance, if someone says, "I have to leave right now," it suggests that they must depart immediately due to an urgent situation or time constraint.
In summary, "have to" is a phrase that signifies an unavoidable obligation, compulsion, or necessity to perform a particular action or comply with certain requirements. It denotes the absence of choice or freedom in the given circumstances, indicating that the specified task or obligation is mandatory and cannot be avoided.
Common Misspellings for HAVE TO
Etymology of HAVE TO
The phrase "have to" is a combination of two separate words.
The word "have" comes from the Old English word "habban", which meant "to possess" or "to hold". This word has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "habjanan".
The word "to" is a preposition, and it comes from the Old English word "tō", which meant "in the direction of" or "toward".
The word "have" and the preposition "to" were eventually combined to create the phrase "have to", which is used to express obligation or necessity in English.
Idioms with the word HAVE TO
-
(one) has made (one's) bed and (one) will have to lie in it
The idiom "one has made one's bed and one will have to lie in it" means that when someone has made a decision or taken a particular course of action, they must accept the consequences or outcomes that come with it. It emphasizes personal responsibility for one's choices and suggests that one cannot escape the repercussions of their own actions.
-
I'll have to beg off.
The idiom "I'll have to beg off" typically means that a person is politely declining an invitation, request, or obligation due to some genuine and often unforeseen circumstances or reasons. It implies that the person is expressing regret for not being able to participate or fulfill their commitment.
-
have to do with (something)
The idiom "have to do with (something)" refers to the connection, relevance, or association of something to a certain subject or matter. It implies that the mentioned thing is related or pertains to the discussed topic, typically in terms of relevance or influence.
-
(I) have to go now.
The idiom "(I) have to go now" means that someone needs to leave or depart from a place or situation immediately. It is often used to politely excuse oneself from a conversation, meeting, or social gathering due to various reasons such as time constraints, prior commitments, or other pressing matters.
-
you don't have to be a rocket scientist
The idiom "you don't have to be a rocket scientist" is used to express that something is not difficult to understand or figure out; it implies that a certain task or concept does not require a high level of intelligence or expertise.
-
How many times do I have to tell you?
The idiom "How many times do I have to tell you?" is a rhetorical question used to express frustration or annoyance with someone who repeatedly fails to remember or follow instructions or advice despite being told multiple times. It implies exasperation and disbelief at the person's apparent lack of comprehension or inattentiveness.
-
Do I have to spell it out?
The idiom "Do I have to spell it out?" means that someone is being very clear or obvious in what they are saying or suggesting, and they are surprised or annoyed that others are not understanding or recognizing it without further clarification. It implies that the person believes the information should be evident or easily understood without any further explanation.
-
You have to be cruel to be kind.
The idiom "You have to be cruel to be kind" means that sometimes it is necessary to be stern or harsh with someone in order to help them or protect them in the long run, even if it initially seems unpleasant or unkind.
-
you have to laugh
The idiom "you have to laugh" typically means that despite a difficult, frustrating, or absurd situation, it is better to find humor and make light-hearted jokes about it rather than becoming overwhelmed or upset. It conveys the idea that laughter can be a coping mechanism or a way to maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity.
-
We have to do lunch smtime
The idiom "We have to do lunch sometime" is a casual expression that typically implies that two individuals should get together for a meal, usually during their free time. It suggests a desire to spend time together and is often used as a friendly way of saying that the speaker would like to catch up or have a conversation over lunch.
-
you have to (learn to) walk before you (can) run
The idiom "you have to (learn to) walk before you (can) run" means that one must master the basics or fundamental skills before attempting more advanced or complex tasks. It emphasizes the importance of taking gradual steps and building a solid foundation before attempting more ambitious goals. This idiom is often used to encourage patience, persistence, and incremental progress in various aspects of life.
-
have to shove off
The idiom "have to shove off" means to have to leave or depart from a particular place or situation. It implies a sense of urgency or the need to go quickly.
-
have to show for
The idiom "have to show for" typically means to have evidence or tangible results of a particular effort, endeavor, or experience. It refers to having something worthwhile, substantial, or concrete to demonstrate as a result of one's actions or achievements.
-
No more than I have to
The phrase "no more than I have to" is an idiom that means doing only what is required and nothing more. It expresses the idea of minimizing effort or involvement beyond necessity.
-
have to live with
The idiom "have to live with" implies accepting or enduring a situation, consequence, or outcome, often an unfavorable one, without the ability to change or escape from it. It conveys the idea of having no choice but to tolerate or bear the circumstances, regardless of personal preference or desire.
-
have to get married
The idiom "have to get married" refers to an expression that signifies a societal or familial expectation or pressure to enter into matrimony. It implies a sense of obligation or necessity to wed, often suggesting that it is not a personal choice but an external requirement.
-
(I) have to be moving along.
A definition for the idiom "(I) have to be moving along" is when someone needs to leave or go somewhere, usually because they have other commitments or responsibilities. It signifies that their time at the current place or with the current people has come to an end, and they need to continue with their schedule or activities.
-
have to do with
The idiom "have to do with" means to be related to, connected to, or relevant to a particular topic or situation. It indicates the association or involvement of something or someone in a specific context.
-
Do I have to paint a picture?
The idiom "Do I have to paint a picture?" is used to express frustration or impatience when someone asks for an explanation or clarification about something that is deemed obvious or should be easily understood. It implies that the situation or concept should be evident without the need for further elaboration.
-
have made your bed and have to lie on it
The idiom "have made your bed and have to lie on it" means that if you have created a difficult or uncomfortable situation for yourself through your own choices or actions, you must accept the consequences and deal with it. Essentially, it implies that you are responsible for the outcome of your own decisions and should not expect others to solve your problems or alleviate your discomfort.
-
I have to hand it to
The idiom "I have to hand it to" means to give credit or praise to someone for their achievement, skill, or accomplishment. It acknowledges and recognizes the person's merit or ability in a particular situation.
-
have to be seen to be believed
The idiom "have to be seen to be believed" means that something is so extraordinary, incredible, or unbelievable that it can only be accepted or understood by witnessing it with one's own eyes.
-
what does that have to do with the price of tea in China
The idiom "what does that have to do with the price of tea in China" is used to dismiss or express indifference towards a statement or suggestion that is irrelevant, unrelated, or pointless. It implies that the mentioned topic or comment holds no significance or relevance to the current discussion or situation.
-
(I) have to shove off.
The idiom "(I) have to shove off" means that a person needs to leave or depart from a place. It is often used to express the need for immediate departure or to communicate that one's time at a particular location or event has come to an end.
-
have to hand it to somebody
The idiom "have to hand it to somebody" means to give credit or recognition to someone for their accomplishments, abilities, or actions, even if they are a rival or adversary. It is an expression of acknowledging and admiring someone's achievements or skills despite any personal biases or previous reservations.
-
have to eat words
The idiom "have to eat words" refers to the need for someone to retract or apologize for something they have said, typically because they were proven wrong or their statement was proved to be false or inaccurate. It implies the embarrassment or humility experienced by the person when they have to admit their mistake and acknowledge that their words were incorrect.
-
Do I have to draw a picture?
The idiom "Do I have to draw a picture?" is used to express frustration or annoyance when someone is being told or asked something that should be obvious or easy to understand. It implies that the situation should be self-explanatory and that further explanation or clarification is unnecessary, as if the speaker would need to draw a picture to make it more understandable.
-
have to run along
The phrase "have to run along" is an idiom used to express that one needs to leave or depart from a place or situation, typically due to having other obligations or responsibilities to attend to. It implies a need to go quickly or without delay.
-
Do I have to paint you a picture?
The idiom "Do I have to paint you a picture?" is a rhetorical question used to express frustration or impatience with someone who is not understanding or comprehending something that should be obvious. It implies that the speaker believes the situation or information being discussed is clear and does not require further explanation or clarification.
-
have to be moving along
The idiom "have to be moving along" means that one must leave or depart from a place or situation. It implies a sense of urgency or the need to continue on with one's journey or to accomplish other tasks.
-
have to do with sb/sth
The idiom "have to do with sb/sth" means to be related to or connected to someone or something. It implies involvement, relevance, or significance in regards to a particular person or thing.
-
have to eat (one's) words
The idiom "have to eat (one's) words" means to retract or take back something that one has said because it turned out to be wrong or false. It refers to the act of admitting one's mistake or error and accepting the consequences for what one has previously stated or claimed.
-
have to be
The idiom "have to be" means that something is necessary or required. It implies that there is no other option or alternative available, and the action or situation in question cannot be avoided or ignored.
-
Do I have to draw you a picture?
The idiom "Do I have to draw you a picture?" is an expression used to convey frustration or annoyance with someone who is not understanding or comprehending something that should be obvious. It implies that the explanation or information should be self-evident and that further elaboration or clarification is unnecessary.
-
I have to wash a few things out.
The phrase "I have to wash a few things out" typically means that someone needs time to reflect, process, or rid themselves of negative emotions or thoughts about a certain situation or event. It implies that they need to mentally cleanse or purify themselves before moving forward or dealing with other matters.
-
you don't have to be a rocket scientist (to do something)
The idiom "you don't have to be a rocket scientist" is used to convey that a particular task or concept is not overly complex or difficult to understand. It implies that one does not require high intelligence or specialized knowledge to comprehend or accomplish something.
-
have to burn
The idiom "have to burn" typically means that someone has a strong desire or motivation to achieve something, often with a sense of urgency. It implies that they are extremely determined and willing to go to great lengths or make sacrifices in order to accomplish their goal.
-
You have to eat a peck of dirt before you die
The idiom "You have to eat a peck of dirt before you die" means that everyone will face difficulties, challenges, or unpleasant experiences in their lifetime. It suggests that encountering hardships and setbacks is inevitable and an inherent part of life.
-
have to hand it to
The idiom "have to hand it to" is used to acknowledge or give credit to someone for their actions, abilities, or achievements, often in situations where it is unexpected or surprising. It implies expressing admiration or respect for someone's accomplishment.
-
have to hand it to someone
The idiomatic expression "have to hand it to someone" means to give credit or recognition to someone for their accomplishments or abilities, even if one may have previously doubted or underestimated them. It acknowledges someone's achievements or skills and often implies a sense of admiration or respect.
-
I could tell you but then I’d have to kill you
The idiom "I could tell you but then I'd have to kill you" is a sarcastic statement used to humorously withhold information, especially knowledge that is classified, secretive, or potentially dangerous. It implies that the information being referred to is highly confidential, and the speaker is exaggerating the seriousness or consequences of sharing it.
-
Do we have to go through all that again?
The idiom "Do we have to go through all that again?" is used to express frustration or annoyance at having to repeat or relive a past experience, especially if it was a negative or tedious one. It implies a desire to avoid unnecessary repetition or to bypass a lengthy or tiresome process.
-
We have to do lunch sometime
The idiom "We have to do lunch sometime" is a casual way of expressing interest in getting together with someone for a meal. It is often use to suggest future plans to have lunch together and implies a desire to spend more time with the person.
-
you have to laugh, at you've got to laugh
The idiom "you have to laugh" or "you've got to laugh" is a phrase used to express the idea that in difficult or frustrating situations, it is better to find humor or amusement rather than become upset or overwhelmed. It suggests that humor and laughter can be coping mechanisms for dealing with adversity or absurdity.
-
have to do with sth
The idiom "have to do with sth" means to be related, connected, or relevant to something. It implies that there is a connection or involvement between two or more things.
-
Do I have to spell it out (for you)?
The idiom "Do I have to spell it out (for you)?" means that someone is expressing frustration or annoyance because they believe that the information or situation should be obvious, and yet they feel compelled to explicitly explain or clarify it for someone else.
-
be/have to do with somebody/something
To be or have to do with somebody/something means to be related to or connected with someone or something. It refers to the influence, relevance or association of a particular person or thing in a situation or context.
-
I/we'll (have to) see
The idiom "I/we'll (have to) see" is used when someone is unsure about making a decision or committing to something, and wants to assess the situation further before making a final determination. It indicates a need for more information or time before reaching a decision.
-
have to
"Have to" is an idiom used to indicate that something is necessary or required, or that there is a duty or obligation to do something.
-
We('ll) have to do lunch smtime,
This idiom is often used to suggest meeting up for lunch at some point in the future, without specifying a particular date or time. It can indicate a desire to catch up and socialize, or to discuss business matters in a more casual setting.
-
have to go sm
Similar spelling words for HAVE TO
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
