the old chestnut "must / have to"

**alla** · 25-Jan-2012, 19:38

You must / have to wash your hands before you examine each and every patient.

This is from a grammar exercise, you have to circle the correct modal verb. Aren't both of them possible?

**bhaisahab** · 25-Jan-2012, 19:40

Originally Posted by alla

You must / have to wash your hands before you examine each and every patient.

This is from a grammar exercise, you have to circle the correct modal verb. Aren't both of them possible?

"must" carries more force when written IMO. If spoken, it would depend on the tone of voice.

**5jj** · 25-Jan-2012, 19:46

For me, 'must' suggests that the speaker/writer is imposing the obligation. 'have to' that the speaker/writer is reporting an obligation imposed by others. This could possibly explain why 'must' can appear to carry more force in writing.

**Tdol** · 26-Jan-2012, 06:32

It's not a good question as both could be used- it depends on who is imposing the obligation.

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