Meaning
Used to indicate that you need to leave.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'Tengo que irme' is often followed by 'Me voy' as you actually stand up to leave. Mexicans often use 'Ya me tengo que ir' to emphasize that the time to leave has arrived. It is common to add 'che' or 'bueno' to soften the departure.
Add a reason
Adding 'porque...' makes your departure feel less abrupt.
Don't forget the 'me'
Without 'me', you are just saying you have to go somewhere.
Meaning
Used to indicate that you need to leave.
Add a reason
Adding 'porque...' makes your departure feel less abrupt.
Don't forget the 'me'
Without 'me', you are just saying you have to go somewhere.
The goodbye process
In Spain/Latin America, saying 'Tengo que irme' is just the first step of a 10-minute goodbye!
Test Yourself
Select the correct form.
Yo _____
Reflexive 'me' is required.
Complete the sentence.
Ellos _____ (have to leave) ahora.
The reflexive 'se' matches 'ellos'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Te quedas? B: No, _____, es tarde.
The context implies leaving the current location.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are at a party and need to go.
This is the standard polite exit.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesYo _____
Reflexive 'me' is required.
Ellos _____ (have to leave) ahora.
The reflexive 'se' matches 'ellos'.
A: ¿Te quedas? B: No, _____, es tarde.
The context implies leaving the current location.
You are at a party and need to go.
This is the standard polite exit.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYes, it is neutral and professional enough.
It can be, so adding 'lo siento' or a reason is better.
It is the standard connector for 'tener' + infinitive.
Yes, it is very common and natural.
Add 'disculpen' (excuse me) first.
No, 'Adiós' is the goodbye, 'Tengo que irme' is the reason for the goodbye.
Yes, it is very common in WhatsApp messages.
No, the phrase is gender-neutral.
Related Phrases
Me voy
synonymI am leaving
Debo retirarme
similarI must withdraw
Tengo que salir
similarI have to go out
