Spanish Phrase
Tengo que irme.
Meaning
This phrase expresses a personal obligation or necessity to depart from a location. It uses the verbal periphrasis 'tener que' followed by the reflexive infinitive 'irse', which specifically emphasizes the act of leaving a place rather than going toward a destination.
When to use
Use this phrase in both formal and informal settings when you need to signal that you are departing. It is commonly used at the end of a meeting, a party, or a casual conversation with friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tengoqueirme
Tener que
This construction is used to express obligation, similar to 'must' or 'have to' in English.
Irse
The reflexive form of the verb 'ir' (to go) changes the meaning to 'to leave' or 'to depart'.
🗨In Conversation
¿Ya es muy tarde para ti?
Is it very late for you already?
Sí, lo siento, tengo que irme ahora.
Yes, I'm sorry, I have to leave now.
✕Common Mistakes
Tengo que ir.
Without the reflexive 'me', it sounds incomplete as if you are going to a specific destination but forgot to say where.
Tengo irme.
The word 'que' is mandatory between 'tengo' and the infinitive to express obligation.
↔Alternatives
Me tengo que ir.
I have to leave (alternative pronoun placement).
Ya me voy.
I'm leaving now.
Es hora de marcharme.
It is time for me to head out.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish-speaking cultures, saying you have to leave is often the start of a long goodbye process known as the 'despedida'. It is polite to offer a brief reason why you are leaving and to spend a few more minutes saying goodbye to others individually.