A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I have to" in Spanish
Express obligation or necessity in Spanish with 'Tengo que'. Essential for daily plans and tasks.
Tengo que
TEN-go kehneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use 'Tengo que' when you need to state that you have an obligation or a necessity to do something. For example, 'Tengo que ir al supermercado' (I have to go to the supermarket) or 'Tengo que estudiar para el examen' (I have to study for the exam).
Alternatives
- DeboSlightly more formal or emphatic, implying a stronger moral or logical duty.
- NecesitoEmphasizes the need or requirement, rather than just the obligation.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'tener' with 'tener que'
'Tener' alone means 'to have' (possession), while 'tener que' means 'to have to' (obligation).
Pronouncing 'que' incorrectly
The 'que' in 'tener que' sounds like 'keh', not 'kway' or 'kay'.
Frequently asked
What's the difference between 'tengo que' and 'debo'?
'Tengo que' is the most common way to say 'I have to' and works in almost any situation. 'Debo' is a bit more formal and can imply a stronger sense of duty or moral obligation.
How do I say 'I have to go' in Spanish?
You would say 'Tengo que ir'. If you want to be more specific about where you're going, you'd add that, like 'Tengo que ir a casa' (I have to go home).
Is 'tengo que' used for all obligations?
Yes, 'tengo que' is the go-to phrase for expressing any kind of obligation or necessity, from simple daily tasks to more important commitments.
Does "tengo que" mean "I have to"?
Yes, "tengo que" is the most common way to say "I have to" in Spanish. It indicates an obligation or necessity.
How do you say "I have to go" in Spanish?
You can say "Tengo que ir" for "I have to go." If you want to be more specific about where you are going, you can add the destination, like "Tengo que ir a casa" (I have to go home).
What is the difference between "tener que" and "deber"?
"Tener que" expresses a stronger, more external obligation, while "deber" often implies a moral obligation or a strong recommendation.
How do you say "You have to" in Spanish?
To say "You have to" in Spanish, you would use "tienes que" for informal 'you' (tú) or "tiene que" for formal 'you' (usted).
