Content tagged with "MUST"

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Modals to express deduction: MUST, CAN'T, COULDN'T

Present

Must, can't and couldn't + infinitive are used to express deductions about present events:

That child is really talented. His parents must be proud of him.
It's only 10 o'clock. He can't/couldn't be at home.

Modals to express obligation: MUST, HAVE (GOT) TO

Present and future

Must refers to obligations which come from the speaker and may be directed at the speaker or the listener:

I really must give up smoking. (directed at the speaker)
You must keep this secret.
(directed at the listener)