"I must go" vs "I must be going"

Question

"I must go" vs "I must be going"

Both "I must be going" and "I must go" are correct phrases in English. They are both used to express the idea of needing to leave a place or situation. The choice between them depends on personal preference or the context in which they are used.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is straightforward and can be used in various contexts to indicate the necessity of departing.

Examples:

I must go now, I have an appointment.
I must go home and finish my work.
I must go before it starts raining.

Alternatives:

I have to leave
I need to go
I should depart
I must head off
I must take off

This phrase is often used in informal situations when saying goodbye. It implies that the speaker needs to depart soon.

Examples:

It's getting late, I must be going.
I must be going now, but it was great seeing you.
I must be going, I have an early start tomorrow.

Alternatives:

I have to go
I need to leave
I should get going
I must leave now
I must head out

Answer 1

I must go

This phrase is also correct and commonly used in English to convey the idea of needing to leave a place or situation.

Answer 2

I must be going

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the need to leave a place or situation.

"I must go" vs "I must be going"

I must go

I must be going

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