Permission & Obligation Lesson 7
This lesson covers the essential grammar for expressing necessity (なければならない), moral obligation (べき), and personal intention (つもり).
When duty calls
In daily life, we often need to talk about what we are required to do, what we think we should do, and what we have planned for the future. Whether it's a work deadline, a moral choice, or a personal goal, Japanese uses specific structures to convey these nuances.
Core Grammar Structures
We use three distinct patterns to express levels of obligation and intent.
- なければならない: Used for objective necessity or obligation (must do). It is formed by taking the negative 'nai' form, dropping the 'i', and adding 'ければならない'.
- べき: Used for moral obligation or 'should do'. It attaches to the dictionary form of a verb (note: 'suru' becomes 'subeki').
- つもり: Used for personal intention (plan/intend to). It attaches to the dictionary form of a verb.
Tip
Examples in Context
See how these structures function in real sentences.
宿題をしなければなりません。
I must do my homework.
学生は勉強するべきです。
Students should study.
明日、日本へ行くつもりです。
I intend to go to Japan tomorrow.
毎日、運動する【つもり】です。
Hint: What is the grammar for intention?
I intend to exercise every day.
Nuance and Register
Understanding when to use which form is key to sounding natural.
Obligation vs. Intent
なければならない
External pressure/duty
行かなければならない (I have to go)
つもり
Internal plan/intent
行くつもりです (I plan to go)
Which form is most appropriate for expressing a strong moral duty?
- つもり
- ✓ べき
- なければならない
べき is specifically used for moral obligations or 'what one ought to do'.
Advanced Notes
Exceptions and variations to keep in mind.
The 'Suru' verb exception
Lesson Recap
Mastering these three forms allows you to express necessity, moral duty, and personal plans clearly.