Meaning
This grammar pattern uses a contracted form to express obligation or necessity regarding an action or situation. なきゃ is a shortened form of なければ. It is synonymous with the pattern 動詞(ない形)なければなりません. When the meaning is clear from context, いけない is often omitted, leaving just 動詞(ない形)なきゃ. This is commonly used in casual, spoken Japanese.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 动词(ない形) | なきゃいけない |
| 动词(ない形) | なきゃ |
Examples
-
明日図書館は閉館日だから、今日本を返さなきゃ。
The library is closed tomorrow, so I have to return the book today. -
これはわたしが担当しているプロジェクトだから、がんばらなきゃいけない。
Since this is a project I'm in charge of, I have to do my best. -
会議の時間を変更する場合は、みなさんに連絡しなきゃいけないよ。
If we need to change the meeting time, we have to contact everyone about it.
Summary
- なきゃ is a casual, contracted form of なければ used to express obligation
- Can be used as なきゃいけない (full form) or なきゃ (shortened form) depending on context
- Commonly used in spoken Japanese when the obligation is clearly understood by the listener