Although it is more common to find it in literature and in formal content, in Spanish we can use the auxiliary verb haber + de + infinitive. This verbal structure is used to express:
1. An obligation, although not a strong one, or the convenience or necessity of doing something.
Have a look and listen to these examples:
He de coger el tren de las diez para llegar a tiempo a mi destino.I must take the ten o'clock train to arrive at my destination on time.
Its more colloquial and informal equivalent is:
tener que/ deber/necesitar + infinitive
Tengo que/Debo/Necesito coger el tren de las diez para llegar a tiempo a mi destino.
2. A future action.
Have a look and listen to these examples:
Its more colloquial and informal equivalent is:
the main verb in the future tense
Esta guerra acabará con la esperanza de paz de la gente.
Remember:
Haber (conjugated) + de + infinitive
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Learn more about these related Spanish grammar topics
Examples and resources
Has de reconocer que los estudiantes merecen un descanso.You must admit that the students deserve a break.
Hemos de admitir que es más duro de lo que pensábamos.We must admit that it is harder than we thought.
