Learn Italian: Marco deve lavare la macchina.

Marco deve lavare la macchina.

Marco has to wash the car.

Breakdown of Marco deve lavare la macchina.

Questions & Answers about Marco deve lavare la macchina.

Why is the second verb lavare ending in '-are' instead of matching Marco?

Because it follows the modal verb deve (must / has to). When you use a modal verb, the verb that comes right after it stays in its full infinitive (dictionary) form. So we use lavare (to wash) rather than conjugating it again.

Does deve translate to 'must' or 'has to'?

It can mean both! The verb dovere covers the English meanings of 'must' and 'to have to'. Translating this as 'Marco must wash the car' or 'Marco has to wash the car' are both perfectly correct.

Does macchina literally mean 'machine'?

Yes, the literal translation is 'machine'. However, in everyday Italian, la macchina is the most standard and common way to say 'the car'.

Could I drop la and just say 'Marco deve lavare macchina'?

No, Italian requires the article here just like English does. Since macchina is a feminine singular noun, you must use the feminine singular definite article la to say 'the car'.