Home/Common Mistakes/Grammar/Modals/Mustn’t and needn’t are not the same
Home/Common Mistakes/Grammar/Modals/Mustn’t and needn’t are not the same

Mustn’t and needn’t are not the same

We use mustn’t when something should definitely not be done.

  • I mustn’t forget to do my homework.
    (Definitely don’t forget to do your homework.)
  • You mustn’t walk on the road.

We use needn’t when you have a choice to do something or not.

  • I needn’t do my homework tonight because the lesson is next week.
    (You can do your homework, or not. Your choice.)
  • You needn’t bring some water because I have some.