An Expression That Must Die: Must-Have

[deirdre]

I don't mind this expression when someone uses it like: "I must have this," especially if it's something I'm selling. In that case, it's helper-verb/verb.

Where I do mind it is when it's used as an an adjective/noun or compound noun combination, as in Top 10 Fashion Must-Haves.

Well, we subscribed to National Geographic when I was a child, so I've seen what the planet wears, I've been to thirty-odd countries, and I can assure you, there is no such thing as a fashion must have.

These days, that expression now translates into "must NOT have."

Goddess, do these people have any idea how offensive they sound with their little pretense of obligation?

Here's my top ten must haves:

Air
Water
Food
Shelter
Spouse
Clothing
Friends
Paper & Pens
Kitties
Garden

And there is no room on that list for a tent dress.