Chinese phrase
必须〜吗？ bì xū 〜 ma
Meaning
Do I have to ___?
When to use it
Asks whether something is required. It checks a rule or obligation and gives a clear, practical way to ask what must be done.
Example dialogue
新生报到时必须参加迎新会吗？ xīn shēng bào dào shí bì xū cān jiā yíng xīn huì ma
Do new students have to attend the orientation when they check in?
不强制，但建议参加，可以认识同学。 bù qiáng zhì dàn jiàn yì cān jiā ké yǐ rèn shí tóng xué
It is not required, but attending is recommended. You can meet classmates there.