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"Tener que" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to have to", and "deber" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to owe". Learn more about the difference between "tener que" and "deber" below.
tener que(
teh
-
nehr
keh
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
1. (general)
a. to have to
Tengo que sacar la basura, apesta.I have to take the trash out; it stinks.
Los participantes tienen que llenar el formulario de salud.The participants have to fill out the health form.
b. to have got to
Tienes que decírselo. Solo complicará las cosas si no lo haces.You've got to tell her. It will only complicate things if you don't.
deber(
deh
-
behr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
An auxiliary verb, or helper verb, is a conjugated verb that comes before a main verb and determines the main verb's tense, mood, or aspect (e.g., I have gone.).
a. must
¿Cuántos años tiene tu profesora de francés? - Debe tener unos cuarenta.How old is your French teacher? - She must be around forty.
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
b. obligation
Es tu deber como madre cuidar a tus hijos.It's your obligation as a mother to take care of your children.
los deberes
A plural noun indicates that there is more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
6. (education)
a. homework
Tengo un montón de deberes que hacer este fin de semana.I have a ton of homework to do this weekend.
deberse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
a. to be due to
Esta situación se debe a la falta de información.This situation is due to a lack of information.
