An informal way of expressing obligation, necessity, or strong recommendation; also, to have reached a place or situation.
A casual way to say 'you must do something' or 'you have to do it'.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To be obliged or compelled to do something (informal modal use).
"You've got to see this film — it's absolutely brilliant."
You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em.
— Kenny Rogers, 'The Gambler' (1978), written by Don Schlitz.
To have reached a particular point, place, or stage.
"By the time she got to the final chapter, she couldn't put the book down."
Past tense of 'get to' — to have arrived at or reached a point.
A casual way to say 'you must do something' or 'you have to do it'.
In the modal sense ('you've got to try this'), it is extremely common in spoken English and informal writing. Often contracted to 'gotta' in very casual speech. In the physical sense ('I've got to the end'), it means 'have arrived at'. Note: 'got to' as a modal is used with 'have' (I've got to), though the 'have' is frequently dropped in speech.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "got to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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