Usage of 务必
'务必' is a formal adverb meaning 'must' or 'be sure to'. It is used to emphasize the necessity or obligation of an action. It often appears in instructions, official notices, or polite requests where the speaker wants to stress that something should definitely be done.
Common Collocations
- 务必按时 (must be on time): used to stress punctuality.
- 务必注意 (must pay attention): emphasizes carefulness.
- 务必保持 (must maintain): stresses continuous action.
Nuance and Register
'务必' carries a strong sense of obligation but is more formal and polite than just '必须'. It is often used in written or formal spoken Chinese rather than casual conversation.
Avoiding Confusion
Do not confuse '务必' with '一定' which also means 'definitely' but is less formal and more about certainty than obligation. '务必' always implies a requirement or instruction.