esto se debe

this must be

this is due to

esto se debe(ehs-toh seh deh-beh)

phrase

1. (used to express obligation)

a. this must be

Existe el riesgo de que estalle una guerra, y esto se debe impedir a toda costa.

There's a risk of war breaking out, and this must be prevented at all costs.

b. this should be

Esto se debe conservar en la nevera para que no pierda sus propiedades. - ¿Qué es? - Es un medicamento.

This should be kept in the fridge so that it doesn't lose its properties. - What is it? - It's a medicine.

c. this ought to be

Esto se debe enviar hoy; si no, no llegará antes del sábado.

This ought to be sent today; otherwise, it won't get there before Saturday.

2. (used to express cause; used with "a")

a. this is due to

Las carreteras están en malas condiciones. Esto se debe a las intensas nevadas invernales.

The roads are in a bad condition. This is due to the heavy winter snowfall.

b. this is due to the fact

Hay grumos. Esto se debe a que el polvo no es soluble en agua.

There are lumps. This is due to the fact that the powder isn't water-soluble.