Have To vs Must: What's the Difference?

Have to' and 'must' both express obligation, so many learners think they are exactly the same. But there is an important difference in where the obligation comes from. In this video, you will learn how to choose the right one. 'Have to' is usually used for rules, laws or things that another person requires. The obligation comes from outside. For example: I have to wear a uniform at work. My company requires it, not me. 'Must' usually expresses a strong feeling or opinion from the speaker. The obligation or recommendation comes from you. For example: The cake is amazing, you must try it! Here, nobody is forcing you, the speaker just feels strongly. 'Must' is also common in written rules and signs, like Passengers must wear seatbelts. Be careful with negatives, because they are very different. 'You don't have to come' means it is not necessary. 'You mustn't come' means it is not allowed. In everyday spoken English, 'have to' is much more common than 'must'. Watch the video, repeat each example, and practice by describing your work rules and things you strongly recommend to friends.