an absolute need

USAGE SUMMARY

"an absolute need" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is essential, unavoidable, or indispensable. For example, "Having a reliable support system in times of crisis is an absolute need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"There's an absolute need for this type of facility".

The New York Times

"Remember," Mr. Carini said, "it may be a desire -- but it's not an absolute need".

The New York Times

I don't think there should be an absolute need to justify it".

The New York Times

There's an absolute need for this type of service, and it benefits everyone".

The New York Times

We have the resources, the people, the technical smarts and above all an absolute need.

The New York Times

It's an absolute need as all Australians are lacking knowledge about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, me included.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Julia Gillard said he had "very difficult and very chaotic work patterns" Resurrected Kevin said he was taking briefings on almost everything, and that "If I have learnt one thing from my previous period as prime minister, and I have learnt quite a lot, is the absolute need for proper orderly decision-making process...proper orderly processes of Cabinet decision making".

The Guardian

But otherwise, she insists, her look is entirely uncalculated and just a reflection of her absolute need for comfort: "There's so many things you have to do in order to get dressed up" — starting with shaving her arms — "and heels put me in a bad mood after a certain amount of time.

The New York Times

For a discussion of the absolute need for evolvable data models in the Life Sciences see [24].

Plosone

Many of the people they support are going through a divorce, and we had a great discussion about the absolute need to show emotion, and to confront those emotions, when going through a divorce.

Huffington Post

This helped me recognise the absolute need for a diverse set of skill sets within a creative team.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the criticality of a requirement, use "an absolute need" to convey that the requirement is not just important, but essential and non-negotiable. This helps set clear expectations and priorities.

Common error

Avoid using "an absolute need" in very informal or casual contexts, as it can sound overly formal or dramatic. In such cases, consider using milder alternatives like "really needs" or "definitely needs" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an absolute need" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies something that is completely necessary or essential. Ludwig shows that this phrase is used across a range of contexts to emphasize the critical nature of a requirement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

38%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an absolute need" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the essential nature of a requirement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. The phrase is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and business domains. It communicates the critical importance of something, highlighting that it is not merely desirable but fundamental. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the level of formality required and consider alternatives like "a vital necessity" or "an essential requirement" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a vital necessity

Emphasizes the importance of the need being fundamental to survival or success; more formal.

an essential requirement

Highlights that the need is a mandatory condition or prerequisite; slightly more formal.

a critical demand

Stresses the urgency and importance of the need; more forceful.

a dire necessity

Implies that the need is urgent and critical to prevent a negative outcome; carries a sense of urgency.

a pressing requirement

Indicates that the need cannot be delayed and requires immediate attention.

an urgent imperative

Emphasizes the critical and unavoidable nature of the need.

a non-negotiable demand

Highlights that the need is firm and cannot be compromised.

a must-have

An informal alternative, suggesting something highly desirable and practically necessary.

something indispensable

Focuses on the irreplaceable nature of the need; implies the impossibility of functioning without it.

utterly essential

Emphasizes the completeness and totality of the necessity.

FAQs

How can I use "an absolute need" in a sentence?

You can use "an absolute need" to emphasize the importance and necessity of something. For example, "There is "an absolute need" for qualified doctors in rural areas."

What are some alternatives to saying "an absolute need"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a vital necessity", "an essential requirement", or "a critical demand".

Is "an absolute need" formal or informal?

"An absolute need" is generally considered formal and is suitable for professional, academic, or serious contexts. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "an absolute need"?

It is appropriate to use "an absolute need" when you want to convey that something is essential, unavoidable, and of utmost importance. It's often used in situations where failure to meet the need would have significant negative consequences.