Top 74 Slang For Have To – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing the concept of obligation or necessity in a more casual and trendy way, slang for “have to” comes to the rescue. Whether you’re looking to spice up your conversations or simply stay in the loop with the latest linguistic trends, our team has you covered. Join us as we unveil a list of the coolest and most popular slang terms for conveying that sense of must-do tasks. Let’s make sure you’re not missing out on the fun!

1. Gotta

This is a contraction of “have got to” and is a slang term used to express the need or obligation to do something. It is commonly used in informal speech or writing.

• For example, “I gotta finish my homework before I can go out with my friends.”
• In a conversation about work, someone might say, “I gotta meet a deadline by the end of the day.”
• A person discussing their plans for the weekend might say, “I gotta clean the house and run errands on Saturday.”

2. Need to

This is a more formal way of expressing the necessity or obligation to do something. It implies that there is a specific need or requirement for the action to be taken.

• For instance, “I need to study for my exam tomorrow.”
• In a discussion about personal goals, someone might say, “I need to lose weight and improve my fitness.”
• A person talking about their job might say, “I need to attend a meeting later this afternoon.”

3. Must

This is a strong and direct way of expressing the necessity or obligation to do something. It implies that there is no choice or alternative, and the action is mandatory.

• For example, “I must finish this report before the end of the day.”
• In a conversation about rules and regulations, someone might say, “You must follow the instructions to ensure safety.”
• A person discussing their responsibilities might say, “I must take care of my younger siblings while my parents are away.”

4. Have got to

This is another way of expressing the need or obligation to do something. It is similar to “gotta” and “have to,” but slightly more formal in tone.

• For instance, “I have got to submit my application before the deadline.”
• In a discussion about time management, someone might say, “I have got to prioritize my tasks for the day.”
• A person talking about their commitments might say, “I have got to attend a meeting tomorrow morning.”

5. Have to

This is the most straightforward and commonly used way of expressing the necessity or obligation to do something. It is a simple and direct statement.

• For example, “I have to wake up early for work.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “I have to take care of my pet.”
• A person discussing their schedule might say, “I have to attend a class in the afternoon.”

6. Got to

This phrase is a colloquial way of saying “have to” or “must.” It is commonly used in informal speech and writing.

• For example, “I’ve got to finish this report by tomorrow.”
• A friend might say, “I’ve got to go pick up my kids from school.”
• In a casual conversation, someone might mention, “I’ve got to get groceries later.”

7. Must needs

This phrase is an archaic way of expressing a strong necessity or obligation. It is not commonly used in modern language, but can still be found in literature or formal writing.

• For instance, “He must needs apologize for his behavior.”
• In a historical novel, a character might say, “I must needs travel to the next town for supplies.”
• A writer might use the phrase in a formal essay, “In order to succeed, one must needs work hard.”

8. Need

This word is used to express a requirement or necessity. It is a more formal and direct way of saying “have to.”

• For example, “I need to attend the meeting tomorrow.”
• A teacher might say, “You need to complete the assignment by Friday.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might mention, “I need to take care of my elderly parents.”

9. Be obliged to

This phrase is a formal way of expressing a sense of duty or obligation. It is often used in professional or polite settings.

• For instance, “I am obliged to inform you of the new company policy.”
• In a business meeting, someone might say, “We are obliged to meet the deadline.”
• A customer service representative might use the phrase, “I am obliged to assist you with any questions or concerns.”

10. Be required to

This phrase is used to indicate a necessity or obligation. It is often used in official or legal contexts.

• For example, “Employees are required to attend the training session.”
• In a contract, it might state, “The tenant is required to pay rent on time.”
• A government document might specify, “All citizens are required to have a valid ID.”

11. Be compelled to

This phrase implies a strong internal or external force that is pushing someone to take a particular action.

• For example, “I was compelled to apologize for my mistake.”
• In a conversation about personal choices, someone might say, “I feel compelled to pursue my passion.”
• A character in a book might say, “She was compelled to speak out against injustice.”

12. Be forced to

This phrase suggests that someone has no choice but to do something, either due to external pressure or circumstances.

• For instance, “I was forced to work overtime because of the deadline.”
• In a discussion about difficult decisions, someone might say, “I was forced to choose between two equally bad options.”
• A character in a movie might say, “He was forced to confront his fears in order to save his loved ones.”

13. Be duty-bound to

This phrase emphasizes a sense of responsibility or duty that compels someone to take a particular action.

• For example, “As a parent, I am duty-bound to protect my children.”
• In a conversation about professional ethics, someone might say, “I am duty-bound to maintain client confidentiality.”
• A character in a play might say, “He felt duty-bound to serve his country in times of war.”

14. Be under an obligation to

This phrase suggests that someone has a sense of duty or responsibility to fulfill a certain task or action.

• For instance, “I am under an obligation to pay my bills on time.”
• In a discussion about social etiquette, someone might say, “We are under an obligation to RSVP to the invitation.”
• A character in a novel might say, “She was under an obligation to keep her promise.”

15. Be under a necessity to

This phrase implies a strong need or requirement for someone to take a particular action.

• For example, “I am under a necessity to finish this project before the deadline.”
• In a conversation about survival instincts, someone might say, “We are under a necessity to find shelter in extreme weather.”
• A character in a story might say, “He was under a necessity to confront his fears in order to overcome them.”

16. Be under a compulsion to

This phrase is used to express a strong sense of obligation or necessity to do something.

• For example, “I am under a compulsion to finish this project by tomorrow.”
• A person might say, “I feel under a compulsion to apologize for my mistake.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might mention, “I am under a compulsion to take care of my family.”

17. Be under a duty to

This phrase is used to indicate a moral or legal obligation to do something.

• For instance, “I am under a duty to report any suspicious activity.”
• A person might say, “As a citizen, I am under a duty to vote in elections.”
• In a discussion about work responsibilities, someone might mention, “I am under a duty to meet deadlines and complete tasks.”

18. Be under a requirement to

This phrase is used to convey a mandatory or necessary obligation to do something.

• For example, “I am under a requirement to attend all staff meetings.”
• A person might say, “As part of my job, I am under a requirement to follow safety protocols.”
• In a conversation about academic rules, someone might mention, “Students are under a requirement to submit their assignments on time.”

19. Be under a need to

This phrase is used to express a strong desire or necessity to do something.

• For instance, “I am under a need to find a new job.”
• A person might say, “I feel under a need to improve my communication skills.”
• In a discussion about personal goals, someone might mention, “I am under a need to live a healthier lifestyle.”

20. Be under a must to

This phrase is used to convey a strong and non-negotiable obligation to do something.

• For example, “I am under a must to finish this project before the deadline.”
• A person might say, “As a parent, I am under a must to provide for my children.”
• In a conversation about rules and regulations, someone might mention, “Employees are under a must to follow the company’s code of conduct.”

21. Be under a got to

This phrase means to have a requirement or obligation to do something. It suggests that there is a necessity or compulsion to perform a certain action.

• For example, “I’m under a got to finish this project by tomorrow.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “We’re all under a got to pay our bills.”
• A person discussing a deadline might mention, “I’m under a got to submit my report by the end of the day.”

22. Be under a gotta

This slang phrase is a shortened form of “got to” and carries the same meaning. It implies that there is a need or requirement to complete a particular task.

• For instance, “I’m under a gotta clean my room before my parents get home.”
• In a discussion about obligations, someone might say, “We’re all under a gotta do our part.”
• A person talking about a commitment might mention, “I’m under a gotta attend that meeting tomorrow.”

23. Be under a have got to

This phrase is another way of expressing the need or obligation to do something. It emphasizes the requirement or necessity of performing a certain action.

• For example, “I’m under a have got to finish this assignment before the deadline.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “We’re all under a have got to contribute to the team.”
• A person discussing a task might mention, “I’m under a have got to complete this project by the end of the week.”

24. Be under a must needs

This phrase indicates a strong necessity or compulsion to do something. It implies that there is no choice or alternative but to perform a certain action.

• For instance, “I’m under a must needs apologize for my mistake.”
• In a discussion about requirements, someone might say, “We’re all under a must needs follow the rules.”
• A person talking about an essential task might mention, “I’m under a must needs finish this project before the deadline.”

25. Be under a need

This slang phrase means to have a requirement or obligation to do something. It suggests that there is a necessity or compulsion to perform a certain action.

• For example, “I’m under a need to study for my exam.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “We’re all under a need to take care of our health.”
• A person discussing a task might mention, “I’m under a need to complete this assignment by tomorrow.”

26. Have got

This phrase is a slang term for expressing the idea of necessity or obligation. It is often used in casual conversation.

• For example, “I have got to finish this report by tomorrow.”
• A friend might say, “We have got to go to that concert, it’s going to be amazing!”
• In a work setting, a colleague might say, “We have got to meet the deadline, there’s no other option.”

27. Have a duty to

This phrase implies a moral or legal obligation to do something. It suggests that there is a sense of responsibility or duty involved.

• For instance, “I have a duty to take care of my family.”
• A teacher might say, “I have a duty to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment for my students.”
• In a military context, a soldier might say, “I have a duty to serve and protect my country.”

28. Have an obligation to

This phrase suggests a sense of moral or social responsibility to do something. It implies that there is a duty or obligation that should be fulfilled.

• For example, “I have an obligation to help those in need.”
• A parent might say, “I have an obligation to provide for my children.”
• In a professional setting, an employee might say, “I have an obligation to meet the expectations of my job.”

29. Have a responsibility to

This phrase indicates a sense of duty or accountability towards a specific task or role. It suggests that there is an expectation or moral obligation to fulfill.

• For instance, “I have a responsibility to take care of my health.”
• A team leader might say, “I have a responsibility to guide and support my team.”
• In a community setting, a member might say, “I have a responsibility to contribute to the betterment of my community.”

30. Have a requirement to

This phrase implies that there is a specific requirement or condition that needs to be met. It suggests that there is a necessity or obligation to fulfill.

• For example, “I have a requirement to complete the training before starting the job.”
• A student might say, “I have a requirement to pass all my exams in order to graduate.”
• In a legal context, a lawyer might say, “I have a requirement to provide evidence to support my client’s case.”

31. Have a need to

This phrase is used to express a strong desire or requirement to do something.

• For example, “I have a need to finish this project before the deadline.”
• In a conversation about personal goals, someone might say, “I have a need to travel the world and experience different cultures.”
• A person might explain their motivation by saying, “I have a need to succeed and prove myself.”

32. Have a necessity to

This phrase is used to convey a strong sense of obligation or requirement to do something.

• For instance, “I have a necessity to attend this important meeting.”
• In a discussion about safety precautions, someone might say, “I have a necessity to wear a seatbelt while driving.”
• A person might explain their actions by saying, “I have a necessity to provide for my family.”

33. Have a compulsion to

This phrase is used to express a strong urge or impulse to do something, often beyond one’s control.

• For example, “I have a compulsion to check my phone every few minutes.”
• In a conversation about bad habits, someone might say, “I have a compulsion to bite my nails.”
• A person might explain their behavior by saying, “I have a compulsion to clean and organize everything.”

34. Have a must to

This phrase is used to convey a strong sense of obligation or requirement to do something.

• For instance, “I have a must to complete this task before the deadline.”
• In a discussion about personal values, someone might say, “I have a must to always be honest.”
• A person might explain their decision by saying, “I have a must to prioritize my mental health.”

35. Have a got to

This phrase is used to express a strong need or obligation to do something.

• For example, “I have got to finish this report before the end of the day.”
• In a conversation about time management, someone might say, “I have got to prioritize my tasks.”
• A person might explain their motivation by saying, “I have got to prove myself and achieve my goals.”

36. Have a got

This phrase is a colloquial way of saying “have to” or “must.” It implies a requirement or obligation to do something.

• For example, “I have a got to finish this project by tomorrow.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “We all have a got to contribute to the team.”
• Another person might ask, “Do we have a got to attend the meeting?”

37. Have a duty

Having a duty means having an obligation or responsibility to do something. It implies a moral or legal requirement to fulfill a certain role or task.

• For instance, “As a citizen, we have a duty to vote in elections.”
• In a discussion about parenting, someone might say, “Parents have a duty to provide for their children.”
• A person might argue, “We all have a duty to protect the environment.”

38. Have an obligation

Having an obligation means being required to do something, often due to a moral, legal, or social responsibility. It implies a sense of duty or necessity.

• For example, “I have an obligation to pay my bills on time.”
• In a conversation about work, someone might say, “Employees have an obligation to follow company policies.”
• A person might state, “We all have an obligation to treat others with respect.”

39. Have a responsibility

Having a responsibility means being accountable for certain actions or tasks. It implies a duty or obligation to fulfill a particular role or obligation.

• For instance, “Parents have a responsibility to take care of their children.”
• In a discussion about teamwork, someone might say, “Each team member has a responsibility to contribute.”
• A person might argue, “We all have a responsibility to protect the environment.”

40. Have a requirement

Having a requirement means having a necessary condition or expectation to fulfill. It implies a specific need or demand that must be met.

• For example, “The job position has a requirement for a bachelor’s degree.”
• In a conversation about qualifications, someone might say, “The university has a requirement for a minimum GPA.”
• A person might state, “There is a requirement to wear a mask in public spaces.”

41. Have a need

This phrase is used to express a requirement or obligation to do something. It emphasizes the necessity or urgency of the action.

• For example, “I have a need to finish this project by tomorrow.”
• A person might say, “I have a need to get some sleep before the big exam.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might mention, “I have a need to take care of my family first.”

42. Have a necessity

This slang phrase is used to indicate a strong need or obligation to do something. It implies that there is no other choice or alternative.

• For instance, “I have a necessity to attend the meeting.”
• A person might say, “I have a necessity to pay my bills on time.”
• In a discussion about priorities, someone might mention, “I have a necessity to focus on my career right now.”

43. Have a compulsion

This slang phrase is used to express a strong urge or irresistible need to do something. It implies a sense of urgency or inevitability.

• For example, “I have a compulsion to clean my room before guests arrive.”
• A person might say, “I have a compulsion to check my phone every few minutes.”
• In a conversation about habits, someone might mention, “I have a compulsion to bite my nails when I’m nervous.”

44. Have a must

This phrase is used to convey a strong requirement or obligation to do something. It emphasizes that there is no other option or choice.

• For instance, “I have a must to finish this report by the end of the day.”
• A person might say, “I have a must to attend my friend’s wedding.”
• In a discussion about rules, someone might mention, “I have a must to follow the dress code at work.”

45. Obliged to

This phrase is used to indicate a sense of duty or responsibility to do something. It suggests that the action is necessary or expected.

• For example, “I am obliged to help my neighbor with their groceries.”
• A person might say, “I am obliged to attend my cousin’s graduation.”
• In a conversation about etiquette, someone might mention, “I am obliged to send a thank-you note after receiving a gift.”

46. Required to

This phrase is a more formal way of expressing that someone is obligated or expected to do something.

• For example, “I am required to submit my assignment by the end of the week.”
• In a work setting, a boss might say, “You are required to attend the meeting tomorrow.”
• A teacher might tell their students, “You are required to read the assigned chapters before the next class.”

47. Should

This word indicates a recommendation or suggestion, implying that it is the right thing to do or the best course of action.

• For instance, “You should call your parents to let them know you’re okay.”
• In a conversation about health, someone might say, “You should exercise regularly to stay fit.”
• A friend might advise, “You should apologize for what you said.”

48. Gotsta

This is a colloquial contraction of “have got to,” indicating a strong need or obligation to do something.

• For example, “I gotsta finish this project before the deadline.”
• In a discussion about responsibilities, someone might say, “I gotsta take care of my family.”
• A person might express their determination by saying, “I gotsta prove myself in this competition.”

49. Have gotsta

This phrase is a slightly more emphatic and informal way of expressing a strong need or obligation to do something.

• For instance, “I have gotsta clean my room before my parents come back.”
• In a conversation about priorities, someone might say, “I have gotsta focus on my studies.”
• A person might express their commitment by saying, “I have gotsta work harder to achieve my goals.”

50. Compelled to

This phrase conveys a sense of being strongly influenced or compelled to do something, often due to external factors or personal beliefs.

• For example, “I feel compelled to speak up against injustice.”
• In a discussion about ethics, someone might say, “I am compelled to do what is right.”
• A person might explain their actions by saying, “I was compelled to help those in need.”

51. Forced to

When someone is “forced to” do something, it means they have no choice but to do it. It implies a lack of agency or control in the situation.

• For example, “I was forced to work late because of a deadline.”
• Another example, “She was forced to apologize for her behavior.”
• In a discussion about difficult decisions, someone might say, “Sometimes you’re forced to choose between two bad options.”

52. Ought to

When someone “ought to” do something, it means they should do it or it is the right thing to do. It implies a sense of obligation or moral duty.

• For instance, “You ought to apologize for what you said.”
• Another example, “We ought to help those in need.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “I ought to clean my room, but I’m procrastinating.”

53. Have an obliged to

When someone “has an obliged to” do something, it means they feel a sense of obligation or duty to do it. It implies a moral or social responsibility.

• For example, “I have an obliged to help my neighbor with their groceries.”
• Another example, “She has an obliged to attend the meeting.”
• In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I have an obliged to support my friends in their endeavors.”

54. Have a compelled to

When someone “has a compelled to” do something, it means they feel a strong urge or inner drive to do it. It implies a sense of necessity or inevitability.

• For instance, “I have a compelled to speak up about the issue.”
• Another example, “He has a compelled to pursue his dreams.”
• In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I have a compelled to learn new skills and expand my knowledge.”

55. Have a forced to

When someone “has a forced to” do something, it means they feel coerced or pressured to do it. It implies a lack of choice or control in the matter.

• For example, “She has a forced to attend the party even though she didn’t want to.”
• Another example, “They have a forced to comply with the company’s policies.”
• In a discussion about difficult situations, someone might say, “I have a forced to make a decision that will impact my future.”

56. Have a should

This slang phrase is used to express a sense of obligation or necessity to do something. It implies that the action is the right or expected thing to do.

• For example, “I have a should finish my homework before going out with friends.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “We all have a should contribute to the team effort.”
• Another usage could be, “I have a should apologize for my mistake.”

57. Have an ought to

Similar to “have a should,” this phrase is used to express a sense of obligation or necessity. It suggests that the action is morally or socially expected.

• For instance, “I have an ought to call my parents regularly.”
• In a discussion about etiquette, someone might say, “We have an ought to be respectful to others.”
• Another example could be, “I have an ought to help my neighbor with their groceries.”

58. Have a have to

This phrase is a more straightforward way of expressing obligation or necessity. It implies that there is a requirement or duty to do something.

• For example, “I have a have to finish this report by tomorrow.”
• In a conversation about rules, someone might say, “We all have a have to follow the guidelines.”
• Another usage could be, “I have a have to attend the meeting.”

59. Have a gotta

This slang phrase is a contraction of “got to” and is used to express a strong need or obligation to do something. It implies that there is a pressing or urgent reason to take action.

• For instance, “I have a gotta leave early for work tomorrow.”
• In a discussion about time management, someone might say, “We all have a gotta prioritize our tasks.”
• Another example could be, “I have a gotta finish this project before the deadline.”

60. Be obligated to

This phrase is a more formal way of expressing a sense of obligation or duty. It suggests that there is a moral or legal requirement to do something.

• For example, “I am obligated to fulfill my contractual obligations.”
• In a conversation about responsibilities, someone might say, “We are all obligated to contribute to the team’s success.”
• Another usage could be, “I am obligated to report any suspicious activity.”

61. Be made to

This phrase indicates that someone is compelled or obligated to do something, often against their will or without their consent.

• For example, “I was made to apologize for something I didn’t do.”
• In a discussion about workplace dynamics, someone might say, “Employees shouldn’t be made to work overtime without proper compensation.”
• A person sharing a personal experience might explain, “I was made to take the blame for a mistake that wasn’t mine.”

62. Be supposed to

This phrase implies that there is an expectation or requirement for someone to do something. It can be used to convey a sense of obligation or duty.

• For instance, “I’m supposed to finish this report by the end of the day.”
• In a conversation about social etiquette, someone might say, “You’re supposed to RSVP to a wedding invitation.”
• A person discussing parenting might explain, “Parents are supposed to provide for their children’s basic needs.”

63. Be expected to

This phrase suggests that there is an anticipation or requirement for someone to do something. It conveys the idea that there is a certain level of expectation placed on the individual.

• For example, “I’m expected to arrive on time for the meeting.”
• In a discussion about academic performance, someone might say, “Students are expected to complete their assignments on time.”
• A person sharing a work experience might explain, “As the manager, I was expected to set a good example for my team.”

64. Be mandated to

This phrase indicates that there is an official requirement or command for someone to do something. It implies that there is a legal or authoritative obligation to fulfill.

• For instance, “Employees are mandated to attend the safety training.”
• In a conversation about government regulations, someone might say, “Businesses are mandated to follow certain environmental standards.”
• A person discussing healthcare might explain, “Healthcare providers are mandated to maintain patient confidentiality.”

65. Be instructed to

This phrase suggests that someone has been given explicit instructions or orders to do something. It conveys the idea that there is a clear directive or guidance provided.

• For example, “I was instructed to follow a specific procedure for the experiment.”
• In a discussion about workplace protocols, someone might say, “New employees are instructed to complete an orientation program.”
• A person sharing a personal experience might explain, “I was instructed to take a different route due to road construction.”

66. Be urged to

This phrase is used when someone is strongly encouraged or persuaded to do something.

• For example, “I was urged to attend the meeting by my boss.”
• A parent might say to their child, “I urge you to finish your homework before playing video games.”
• In a work setting, a supervisor might urge their team members to meet a deadline.

67. Be advised to

This phrase is used when someone is given a suggestion or recommendation to do something.

• For instance, “I was advised to take a different route to avoid traffic.”
• A doctor might advise a patient to quit smoking for better health.
• A friend might advise another friend, “You should be advised to double-check your work before submitting it.”

68. Be recommended to

This phrase is used when someone is given a suggestion or recommendation to do something.

• For example, “I was recommended to try this new restaurant.”
• A teacher might recommend a book to a student for extra reading.
• A colleague might recommend a new software tool to improve productivity.

69. Be told to

This phrase is used when someone is given a direct order or command to do something.

• For instance, “I was told to clean my room before going out.”
• A supervisor might tell an employee, “You are told to complete this report by the end of the day.”
• A coach might tell their players, “You are told to give your best effort on the field.”

70. Be asked to

This phrase is used when someone is politely asked or requested to do something.

• For example, “I was asked to bring a dessert to the party.”
• A teacher might ask a student to stay after class for a discussion.
• A boss might ask an employee to prepare a presentation for an important meeting.

71. Be required by law to

This phrase refers to something that is mandatory or compulsory due to a legal requirement. It implies that there are consequences or penalties for not complying with the law.

• For example, “Drivers are required by law to wear seat belts.”
• A person discussing taxes might say, “Individuals are required by law to file their tax returns by April 15th.”
• In a discussion about workplace safety, someone might mention, “Employers are required by law to provide proper training and protective equipment.”

72. Be necessary to

This phrase indicates that something is needed or essential for a particular purpose or outcome. It suggests that there is no alternative or choice in the matter.

• For instance, “It is necessary to study in order to pass the exam.”
• A person discussing cooking might say, “It is necessary to preheat the oven before baking.”
• In a conversation about achieving goals, someone might mention, “It is necessary to work hard and stay focused.”

73. Be essential to

This phrase implies that something is absolutely necessary or crucial for a desired result or outcome. It suggests that there are no alternatives or substitutes.

• For example, “A healthy diet is essential to maintain good health.”
• A person discussing teamwork might say, “Effective communication is essential to a successful collaboration.”
• In a conversation about personal growth, someone might mention, “Self-reflection and self-awareness are essential to personal development.”

74. Be crucial to

This phrase indicates that something is of utmost importance or significance for a specific purpose or outcome. It suggests that the success or effectiveness of something depends on it.

• For instance, “Time management is crucial to meeting deadlines.”
• A person discussing decision-making might say, “Considering all the options is crucial to making an informed choice.”
• In a conversation about leadership, someone might mention, “Effective communication is crucial to inspiring and motivating a team.”