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must [ must ] (3rd person present singular must, plural musts) CORE MEANING: a modal verb indicating that somebody is compelled to do something because of a rule or law, or that it is necessary or advisable to do something
  Accidents causing injury must be reported immediately.
Employment decisions must be based on ability.
We must improve our schools.
You must give him a chance to state his case. |
| Definition: |
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1. modal v be compelled: to be compelled to do something because of a rule or law
You must stop when the light is red.
All guests must vacate their rooms by 12 noon.
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2. modal v be necessary: to be important or necessary for doing something
Henceforth, he said, the central organizing principle of all governments must be the environment.
Health care insurance must be affordable.
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3. modal v be certain: indicates that somebody is sure that something is the case
This must seem strange to you.
Those must be your footprints in the garden.
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4. modal v indicates belief: indicates that somebody concludes that something is the case on the basis of the available evidence
Paleontologists know that primates must have immigrated to South America sometime before 28 million years ago.
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5. modal v used to make suggestions: used to make suggestions or invitations or to give advice
You must see a doctor.
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6. modal v intend: to intend or be determined to do something
(
formal
)
I must call the company.
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7. noun something essential: something that is essential or obligatory
Formal attire is a must at a state dinner.
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8. prefix essential: absolutely necessary or highly recommended for somebody
(
informal
)
(
added to a verb to form a noun or adjective
)
a must-win situation
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| [ Old English mōste, past tense of assumed mōtan "have to, be able to" < Germanic] |
