"Have got to" is used to express necessity and obligation.
Examples:
- Drivers have got to get a license to drive a car in the US. necessity
- I have got to be at work by 8:30 AM. obligation
| Use | Positive Forms 1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future |  1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future | You can also use: |
| have got to necessity | 1. People have got to be on time if they want to get a seat in the crowded theater.2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" You had to be on time if you wanted to get a seat in the crowded theater. 3. You have got to be there on time tonight if you want to get a seat in the crowded theater. | 1. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" People don't have to be there on time to get a seat.2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" You didn't have to be there on time to get a seat. 3. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" You won't have to be there on time to get a seat. | have to, must |
| haven't got to future obligation | Haven't you got to be there by 7:00?Haven't you got to finish that project today? "Haven't got to" is primarily used to ask about future obligations. It can be used in statements, but this is less common. | Don't you have to |
