なければいけない (Must do)
Must do, Have to do
JLPT N4
Pattern
Verb (ない-form → なければ) + いけない
How it works
なければいけない means “must / have to”. Change ない to なければ and add いけない (polite: いけません). It often expresses personal or situational need.
Examples
- あしたは 早く おきなければ いけません。I have to get up early tomorrow.
- 薬を 飲まなければ いけない。I have to take my medicine.
Related grammar
Further reading
Bunpro N4 · Lesson 9Put your practice together
Work through a complete paper at your own pace or choose a timed mock exam. No account is needed to begin.