The French phrase “il faut que” means “it’s necessary that.” It is used to express obligation and necessity. Unlike the phrase “il faut” (which is used without “que” and with a verb in the infinitive), “il faut que” specifies exactly who should do something. “Il faut que” is always accompanied by a second verb in the subjunctive mood.

This phrase is an alternative to the verb “devoir,” which means “to have to,” or “must.” Most beginners learn “devoir” first. To them, “il faut que” may seem unnecessarily complicated, especially with the use of the subjunctive mood for the following verb. But the fact is that “il faut que” is more frequently used in French than “devoir.” This phrase is widely used in both spoken and written French and is an essential part of everyday communication.

The “il” part of “il faut que” means “it,” not “he.” This is called an impersonal usage, because it doesn’t refer to a person.

Examples

1. Il faut que tu viennes à la réunion.
   (You need to come to the meeting.)
2. Il faut que nous partions tôt demain.
   (We have to leave early tomorrow.)
3. Il faut que vous fassiez vos devoirs avant ce soir.
   (You must do your homework before tonight.)
4. Il faut que je trouve un nouvel emploi.
   (I need to find a new job.)
5. Il faut que les enfants fassent leurs lits tous les matins.
   (The children have to make their beds every morning.)