THE USE AND INTERPRETATION OF THE MODAL EXPRESSION “HAVE TO” IN MODERN ENGLISH GRAMMAR

Abstract

The modal expression have to plays a significant role in modern English grammar as a key means of expressing necessity and obligation. Unlike core modal verbs, have to functions as a semi-modal and is widely used in both spoken and written English. This article aims to analyze how the structure have to is presented and interpreted in major English grammar books, including works by Raymond Murphy, Michael Swan, Sidney Greenbaum, Betty Schrampfer Azar, and L.G. Alexander. The study focuses on semantic meaning, grammatical structure, tense variation, and pedagogical approaches. Through comparative analysis, the article demonstrates that have to primarily expresses external obligation and objective necessity. The findings confirm that understanding different grammatical explanations of have to is essential for both language learners and educators.