Must (modal verb)

Meaning 1: We use ‘must’ when we want to say that it is necessary or very important that
something happens in the present or future.
Examples: I must work hard on my English! (note: this expresses an obligation that you place
on yourself.)
You mustn’t (= must not) tell this to anyone. It is a secret.
This food must not be eaten. It has gone bad.
Pupils must not run in the corridors. (note: here, ‘must’ expresses a school rule.)
.
Meaning 2: We use ‘must’ to give emphasis to an opinion.
Examples: I must admit, it was a frightening experience. (note: we use ' I must admit' before a
surprising or negative comment.)
I must say, this food is delicious! (note: in this sentence, we would not say ‘I must admit, this
food is delicious!’ because it would mean that we did not expect the food to be delicious. This
would sound a little rude!)
I must admit, I didn’t like him much when I first met him.
I must say, you look really well! Have you been on holiday?
.
Meaning 3: We use ‘must’ to emphasise that we think it is a good idea for someone to do
something pleasant. It is a way of giving a recommendation.
Examples: You must come and visit us while you are in London!
We must go and see that film – I have heard it is excellent!
.
Meaning 4: We use ‘must’ to make an assumption or to reach a logical conclusion about
something that is very likely to be true.
Examples: You must be so tired after running that marathon! (note: this means ‘I assume that
you are tired.’)
My bicycle has disappeared – someone must have stolen it. (note: this means ‘I assume that
someone stole it.’)
You must have been so cold when you were locked out of your house in the snow! (note: this
means ‘I assume that you were so cold.’)