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Which sentence is correct?

In general it has to be questioned [...].

In general it is to be questioned [...].

I am not sure which is correct, but I think "it has to be" is correct.

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    What's the context? It's possible to build sentences around both fragments, but the one with is sounds more contrived.
    – Gilles 'SO- stop being evil'
    Aug 20, 2013 at 13:12

2 Answers 2

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It has to be questioned is the correct usage here, but you could also use

It must be questioned

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'has to' is used when there is a compulsion, say a threat or an order or a non-negotiable task.

Example- Say, your friend asks you to come with him and you deny by saying-'No, I am to go to pick my nephew from school.' He would say- 'But your brother too can go and pick him, you please come with me, it's urgent.' You agree and call your brother to inform about the situation.

Case2: You deny your friend by saying,'I have to go to pick my nephew as my brother is out of town.' Your friend understands and leave.

Now depending on the context of your question, both 'has to' and 'is to' can be applied.

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    'has to' is used much more widely than just in the cases of threats and orders. And there is no indication that there is a threat and order in the OP's sentence. I don't think this answer is that helpful.
    – Peter Shor
    Aug 20, 2013 at 12:21
  • More widely usage need not be technically correct. Btw, I've updated my answer.
    – aarbee
    Aug 20, 2013 at 13:28
  • I wish one might explain the reason for the downvote.
    – aarbee
    Sep 3, 2013 at 17:53

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