ないといけない

ないといけない is used to say that something is necessary or that you must do something.

🔹 Basic Meaning

• “must …”
• “have to …”
• “need to …”

🔹 When to use ないといけない

• When something is required or necessary
• When you want to say you must do something
• Used for rules, duties, or personal obligations
• Common in daily conversation (N5)

🔹 Simple Examples

勉強しないといけません。
→ I must study.

早く起きないといけません。
→ I have to wake up early.

薬を飲まないといけません。
→ I must take the medicine.

明日行かないといけません。
→ I have to go tomorrow.

🔹 Difference (N5-friendly)

ないといけない means “must / have to,” while なくてもいい means “don’t have to.”

⭐ The Grammar Summary

• ないといけない = “must / have to”
• Used with the ない-form of verbs
• Expresses obligation or necessity (N5)