Needn't have

Question

HiI know it's correct to say "You don't have to take the jacket" or "You needn't take the jacket" how about "You needn't have to take the jacket" - is this one also correct?

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

Newguest"You needn't have to take the jacket" - is this one also correct?

It's only correct in a sort of theoretical sense. There's no law against saying the same thing twice!

It's redundant because it's a combination of needn't and don't have to. It's like saying You don't have to have to take the jacket or You needn't need take the jacket. Or, more simply, it's like saying, You can take the jacket and take the jacket.There's nothing grammatically wrong, but why would anybody say it?

CJ

Newguest · Answer

I see Calif. Thank you!

Needn't have

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬