3.3 - Estructuras - hay que + infinitivo

 Estructuras

 

We have talked a lot about ways to say what someone “has to do”. For example, we already know if we use “tener que + infinitivo” it means we have to do something (por ejemplo: “Tengo que ir de compras” means “I have to go shopping”). Using “tener que” is useful when talking about specific people.

 

• Elena tiene que estudiar para el examen.
• Jorge tiene que comer más fruta.
• Nosotros tenemos que salir a las tres en punto.
• Los niños tienen que terminar su trabajo.

 

However, there are some other ways that we can indicate a need, or requirement, or obligation in a more general way. We have already seen some in this unit. Can you think of any?

 

Por ejemplo
Hay que darse prisa.	You have (One has) to hurry.
Hay que ir a la puerta de embarque 16.	You have (One has) to go to Gate 16.
Hay que pasar por la aduana.	You have (One has) to go through Customs.
Hay que intentar algo nuevo cada día.	You have (One has) to try something new every day.
Hay que elegir una actividad.	You have (One has) to choose an activity.

 

You already know that “hay” is the way to say “there is” or “there are” in Spanish. But, when we use the construction “hay que + infinitivo” it allows us to talk about what one must do or general obligations not tied to any person in particular, something in more general terms.

 

 

Practicamos más en la página de práctica pero primero vamos a mirar un nuevo tiempo verbal.