In French, "je dois" and "il faut" are used to express obligation or necessity. Although their uses are similar, they apply in slightly different contexts.
Je dois
"Je dois" is an expression that indicates a personal obligation or necessity. It is conjugated with the verb "devoir".
- Je dois finir mes devoirs avant de sortir. (I have to finish my homework before going out.)
- Tu dois aller chez le médecin cet après-midi. (You have to go to the doctor this afternoon.)
- Nous devons arriver à l'heure pour la réunion. (We have to arrive on time for the meeting.)
- Ils doivent réviser pour l'examen de demain. (They have to study for tomorrow's exam.)
Il faut
"Il faut" is an impersonal expression that expresses a general obligation or necessity without specifying who is involved. It is often followed by an infinitive.
- Il faut éteindre les lumières en quittant une pièce. (It is necessary to turn off the lights when leaving a room.)
- Il faut porter un casque pour faire du vélo. (You must wear a helmet when riding a bike.)
- Il faut arriver à l'heure pour le début du spectacle. (You need to arrive on time for the start of the show.)
- Il faut apprendre les règles de grammaire pour parler correctement. (It is necessary to learn grammar rules to speak properly.)
Usage Differences
Although "je dois" and "il faut" both express an obligation, "je dois" is more personal and specific to the speaker or listener, while "il faut" is more general and can apply to anyone.
- Je dois manger moins de sucre. (I have to eat less sugar.)
- Il faut manger équilibré. (It is necessary to eat a balanced diet.)