in need of

USAGE SUMMARY

"in need of" is correct and is used in written English.
You could use it to describe a situation where someone needs something in order to progress or solve an issue. For example: "The library is in need of new books to keep up with the current trends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In need of stimulation?

The New Yorker

He was forever in need of funds.

The New Yorker

Eritreans are in need of international protection".

Independent

However, it is in need of renovation.

The New York Times

"The format is in need of evolution".

The New York Times

We are in need of new blood".

The Guardian

I felt in need of a lift.

The New York Times - Food

They are fights in need of picking.

The New York Times

I am not in need of attention.

The New York Times

Feel frazzled and in need of relaxation?

The Economist

The pope was in need of aid.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in need of" to clearly and directly express a requirement or lack of something. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, ensuring your message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "in need of" excessively in a single piece of writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms like "requiring", "lacking", or other alternatives to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in need of" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a requirement or deficiency. Ludwig highlights numerous examples demonstrating this function across diverse contexts, affirming its grammatical validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in need of" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate a requirement or deficiency. As Ludwig confirms, it appears frequently across various contexts, from formal business documents to news articles and everyday conversation. While alternatives like "requiring" or "lacking" exist, "in need of" provides a clear and direct way to express a necessity. To enhance your writing, avoid overuse and vary your language by incorporating synonyms. Understanding its function and register ensures effective communication across diverse settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requiring

Implies a formal necessity, shifting from a state of need to an active requirement.

requiring assistance

Specifically highlights the need for help or support.

crying out for

Implies an urgent and desperate need.

lacking

Focuses on the absence of something, rather than the need for it.

calling for

Emphasizes the necessity for something to be done or provided.

desiring

More formal than "wanting", indicating a strong wish or need.

short on

Suggests a limited supply or quantity of something needed.

wanting

Suggests a desire or wish for something, which can be less urgent than a need.

deficient in

Emphasizes a lack or shortage, often in a technical or scientific context.

in want of

An older, more literary way to express need or lack.

FAQs

How can I use "in need of" in a sentence?

You can use "in need of" to indicate that someone or something requires something. For example, "The old house is "in need of repair"" or "The refugees are "in need of humanitarian aid"".

What are some alternatives to "in need of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "requiring", "lacking", or "wanting". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "in need of" or "needs"?

"In need of" can often be perceived as slightly more formal than simply using "needs". However, both are widely accepted and understood. The choice depends on the overall tone of your writing.

What is the difference between "in need of" and "in want of"?

"In want of" is an older, somewhat archaic phrase that means the same as "in need of". While "in want of" is still grammatically correct, "in need of" is more commonly used in modern English.