How To Use MUST
MUST is a modal verb – in other words, it helps give meaning to other verbs. Let’s look at all its meanings here, so you can avoid misunderstandings!
Meaning 1: We use MUST when we want to say that it is necessary or very important that something happens in the present or future.
Examples:
1. I must work hard on my English! (note: this expresses an obligation that you place on yourself.)
2. You mustn’t (= must not) tell this to anyone. It is a secret.
3. This food must not be eaten. It has gone bad.
4. Pupils must not run in the corridors. (note: here, ‘must’ expresses a school rule.)
Meaning 2: We use MUST to give emphasis to an opinion.
Examples:
1. I must admit, it was a frightening experience. (note: we use ' I must admit' before a surprising or negative comment.)
2. I must say, this food is delicious! (note: in this sentence, we would not say ‘I must admit, this food is delicious!’ because it would mean that we did not expect the food to be delicious. This would sound a little rude!)
3. I must admit, I didn’t like him much when I first met him.
4. I must say, you look really well! Have you been on holiday?
Meaning 3: We use MUST to emphasise that we think it is a good idea for someone to do something pleasant. It is a way of giving a recommendation.
Examples:
1. You must come and visit us while you are in London!
2. We must go and see that film – I have heard it is excellent!
Meaning 4: We use MUST to make an assumption or to reach a logical conclusion about something that is very likely to be true.
Examples:
1. You must be so tired after running that marathon! (note: this means ‘I assume that you are so tired.’)
2. My bicycle has disappeared – someone must have stolen it. (note: this means ‘I assume that someone has stolen it.’)
3. You must have been so cold when you were locked out of your house in the snow! (note: this means ‘I assume that you were so cold.’)
Note: In meaning 4, above, the opposite of MUST is CAN’T.
Examples:
1. He didn’t eat any lunch – he can’t have been hungry. (note: this means ‘ I assume that he was not hungry.’)
2. I don’t believe he is a thief – it can’t be true. (note: this means ‘I assume that it is not true.’)
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MUST can also be used a NOUN
Meaning: We say something is A MUST if it is really necessary to have it.
Example: If you are visiting London, a good map is a must.
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Now, try to write your own sentences using MUST, making sure that they are true to your own life as this will help you to remember them better!