has to be done

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has to be done" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something needs to be done as a requirement or obligation. For example: "The project has to be done by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It has to be done.

The New York Times

But yoga has to be done intelligently.

The New York Times

Without question, something has to be done.

The Economist

"But more has to be done".

The New York Times

Still, it has to be done.

The New Yorker

That really has to be done.

The New Yorker

But it has to be done tastefully.

The New Yorker

We understand what has to be done.

Independent

But it has to be done.

The New York Times

Something has to be done here".

The New Yorker

But it has to be done carefully".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has to be done", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is responsible for performing the action. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the agent involved.

Common error

While "has to be done" is versatile, be mindful of its formality. In casual conversation, consider alternatives like "needs doing" or "gotta do" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has to be done" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating obligation or necessity. It shows that an action is required or unavoidable. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

15%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has to be done" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile expression used to indicate obligation or necessity. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely accepted in English writing. Examples from Ludwig show its usage across diverse contexts, from formal reports to casual conversations. While generally neutral in tone, consider slightly more casual alternatives like "needs doing" in very informal settings. Understanding the subtle differences between "has to be done", "should be done", and other alternatives can refine your writing and ensure you convey the precise level of obligation intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must be done

Emphasizes a strong obligation or requirement for the action.

needs to be done

Suggests a requirement driven by necessity or a problem that requires a solution.

is required to be done

Highlights that the action is a formal requirement, often by rule or law.

is essential to do

Indicates that the action is vital and indispensable.

is necessary to do

Focuses on the essential nature of the action for achieving a specific outcome.

is imperative to do

Stresses the critical and urgent nature of the action.

should be done

Indicates a recommendation or advisable action, rather than a strict obligation.

ought to be done

Similar to "should be done" but with a slightly more formal tone.

has to happen

Shifts the focus to the inevitability or necessity of an event or process.

cannot be avoided

Emphasizes the unavoidable nature of the action or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "has to be done" in a sentence?

You can use "has to be done" to express obligation or necessity. For instance, "The report "has to be done" by Friday" indicates a deadline.

What are some alternatives to "has to be done"?

Alternatives include "must be done", "needs to be done", or "should be done", depending on the level of obligation you want to convey.

Is "has to be done" formal or informal?

"Has to be done" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very informal contexts, consider using phrases like "gotta do" or "needs doing".

What is the difference between "has to be done" and "should be done"?

"Has to be done" implies a requirement or obligation, while "should be done" suggests a recommendation or advisable action. The former carries a stronger sense of necessity.