〜なければなりません
must do / have to do
Express a duty, rule, or action that cannot be skipped.
Remember it
No skipping it: attach 〜なければなりません to the required action.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
Expresses obligation. 行かなければなりません = I must go. In casual speech it shortens to 〜なきゃ. At work you will hear it about deadlines: 今日中に終わらせなければなりません (It must be finished today).
When to use it
Use it for deadlines, rules, paperwork, and responsibilities.
Tone: Casual
Natural with friends and people close to you; avoid it in formal situations.
Use
Hear it in real life
At work
Example 1明日までにレポートを出さなければなりません。
あしたまでに れぽーとを ださなければなりません。
ashita made ni repooto o dasanakereba narimasen
I must submit the report by tomorrow.
Everyday life
Example 2ビザを更新しなければなりません。
びざを こうしんしなければなりません。
biza o koushin shinakereba narimasen
I have to renew my visa.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 2
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
I must submit the report by tomorrow.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜なければなりません.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.