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How to Say ‘Should’ in French

Dû

dew

[dew]

💬 Usage Tip: Dû is the form used in avoir dû to mean "had to" or "should have," depending on context. The little accent helps distinguish it in writing from du in prix du trajet.

Phrase Breakdown

Dû

[dew]

Had to

Necessity or obligation in the past.

Example

Il a dû partir tôt.

He had to leave early.

Guides for French learners

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