In German, you can express a strict obligation or duty using the verb haben combined with zu and an infinitive. This structure is similar to "have to" in English but feels slightly more formal and rigid than simply using müssen (must), making it perfect for official protocols or rules—like managing a zoo.
The "haben zu" Structure
To form an active obligation, conjugate haben in the second position of the sentence, and place zu directly before the infinitive at the very end of the clause.
| The zookeeper has to clean the cage every day. | Der Tierpfleger hat den Käfig jeden Tag zu reinigen. |
| The zookeepers have to lock the enclosure. | Die Tierpfleger haben das Gehege zu verriegeln. |
| We have to feed the predator immediately. | Wir haben das Raubtier sofort zu füttern. |
Establishing Strict Boundaries
Because this grammar pattern emphasizes absolute rules, it is frequently paired with limiting words like niemand (no one) or nur (only) to dictate exactly who is or isn't authorized to perform an action.
| No one is to enter the enclosure without permission. | Niemand hat das Gehege ohne die Erlaubnis zu betreten. |
| Only the zookeeper is to enter the cage. | Nur der Tierpfleger hat den Käfig zu betreten. |
Separable Verbs
If the required action involves a separable verb, the zu does not stand alone. Instead, it gets wedged directly between the prefix and the main verb root, combining into a single word.
For example, the verb einhalten (to adhere to / to maintain) becomes einzuhalten.
| The visitor has to maintain the distance to the predator. | Der Besucher hat den Abstand zum Raubtier einzuhalten. |
| The zookeepers have to strictly follow the protocol. | Die Tierpfleger haben das Protokoll streng einzuhalten. |
More Examples
Here are a few more examples of strict animal care protocols in action:
| Both the zookeeper and the vet have to document the symptoms. | Sowohl der Tierpfleger als auch der Tierarzt haben die Symptome zu dokumentieren. |
| The zookeeper has to bring the sick animal into quarantine. | Der Tierpfleger hat das kranke Tier in die Quarantäne zu bringen. |