devoir is a crucial French verb that expresses obligation, necessity, or responsibility. It means “to have to,” “must,” or “to owe,” depending on context. As an essential modal verb, it helps convey things that must be done or are expected.
- devoir = to have to, must; also to owe (depending on context)
- Expresses necessity or obligation
- Used for things you “must” do or “should” do
- Fundamental for everyday conversation and formal situations
*devoir* expresses obligation and necessity.
Conjugation of Devoir
Devoir is an irregular -oir verb. Its main present tense forms are:
| Person | French | English |
|---|---|---|
| Je | dois | I must / have to |
| Tu | dois | You must / have to (informal) |
| Il/Elle/On | doit | He/She/One must / has to |
| Nous | devons | We must / have to |
| Vous | devez | You must / have to (formal/plural) |
| Ils/Elles | doivent | They must / have to |
- devoir is irregular and belongs to the -oir family
- Root changes to “doiv-” or “dev-” depending on tense
It's -is, -is, -it, -ons, -ez, -ent for devoir.
Using Devoir for Obligation
When devoir expresses obligation, it functions like “must” or “have to.”
- Je dois travailler. → I have to work.
- Nous devons partir. → We must leave.
- Ils doivent étudier. → They have to study.
The verb is always followed by an infinitive for the action required:
Subject + devoir (conjugated) + infinitive
You conjugate *devoir* and follow it with an infinitive.
Expressing a Strong Assumption
Devoir can also express a strong assumption or deduction about the present:
- Elle doit avoir faim. → She must be hungry. (You assume she is hungry.)
- Ils doivent savoir la vérité. → They must know the truth.
The structure remains:
Subject + devoir (conjugated) + infinitive
Yes, *devoir* is used for strong assumptions as well.
Common Expressions with Devoir
- avoir devoir de + infinitive — to have the right to (formal)
- devoir rendre — to have to give back, return (something)
- en devoir — to be owed (money, etc.)
*devoir* can mean to have to, must, or to owe.
Conclusion
Devoir is essential for talking about obligations, necessities, and even assumptions in French. Mastering its forms and uses unlocks more precise and versatile communication.
- devoir = to have to/must/owe; expresses obligation, necessity, responsibility
- Irregular verb: Je dois, Tu dois, Il doit, Nous devons, Vous devez, Ils doivent
- Use devoir + infinitive for “must do…” and also for strong assumptions
*devoir* means to have to, must, or to owe.
It is 'Tu dois étudier'.
Correct: 'Nous devons partir' (obligation), 'Elle doit être malade' (assumption).