English–French

“have to” in French

French

Alsofalloir

Pronunciation

IPA/dəvwaʁ/

Example

Je dois partir maintenant.

I have to leave now.

Illustration for devoir (have to)

How to say “have to” in French

“Have to” in French is devoir.

A person carries a task as something owed, while an expected event appears strongly supported.

Full entry for devoir: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with devoir

Je dois étudier pour l'examen ce soir.

I must study for the exam tonight.

Tips for using devoir

  • For a personal obligation, devoir + infinitive is natural, while general necessity often uses il faut + infinitive.

Other French words for “have to”

Il faut partir maintenant.

We have to leave now.

“have to” in other languages