have got to
phr. v..phr. v.. A common phrase used to say that something is necessary or that you have a strong obligation to do it. It's a more informal way to say 'must'.
phr. v.. A semi-modal verb phrase expressing strong obligation or necessity, functioning as a common, informal equivalent of 'must' or 'have to'.
I have got to go now.
We have got to finish this report by Friday, or the boss will be angry.
If we are to preserve this fragile ecosystem, we have got to implement stricter environmental protections immediately, regardless of the short-term economic costs.
- Particles
- got to
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- have + got + to + verb
Often shortened to 'gotta' in very informal speech and writing.
Contrast with 'have to' (more common for general obligation, especially in questions/negatives) and 'must' (more formal or for internal obligation).
I have got go now.I have got to go now.The infinitive marker 'to' is required before the main verb that follows.