in need of update

USAGE SUMMARY

"in need of update" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is outdated and needs to be changed. For example, "This software is in need of update, since it is no longer compatible with the latest operating systems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Indeed, relevant MESH terms are useful, but they are in need of update.

Biology Direct

It may be necessary to make tradeoffs considering which of a number of SR topics are most in need of update.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Quite a few bargains, and homes in need of updating.

The Guardian - Money

The agents say it is in need of updating.

The Guardian - Business

The image of early Heaney as a pastoral ingenu is woefully in need of updating.

The Guardian - Books

"The current rule is drastically in need of updating," Ms. Nazareth said.

The New York Times

CONS: The kitchen is a small galley with very little light, in need of updating.

The New York Times

Since the constitution was drawn up only in 1998, it is hardly in need of updating.

The Economist

It is, as the property agency Rook Matthews Sayer admits, "in need of updating".

The New York Times

He says that the law is "a poorly worded statute" in need of updating.

The Washington Post

The population estimate given by BirdLife International is in need of updating.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in need of update", be specific about what aspect requires updating. For example, instead of saying "the system is in need of update", specify "the software is in need of update to address security vulnerabilities".

Common error

While grammatically sound, "in need of update" can sound less direct than alternatives like "requires updating" or "needs to be updated", especially in formal contexts. Choose the phrasing that best suits the tone and audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in need of update" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It indicates a requirement for revision or modernization. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in need of update" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe something that requires modernization or revision. While confirmed as correct by Ludwig AI, it is relatively rare, appearing most frequently in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. More direct alternatives, such as "requires updating", may be preferred in formal writing. When using this phrase, specificity is key to clearly convey which aspect needs updating.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requiring an update

This alternative directly states the need for an update, similar to the original phrase.

needs to be updated

This is a more active phrasing of the original, emphasizing the action required.

outdated and requiring revision

This alternative specifies the outdated state and the need for revision.

in need of revision

This alternative focuses on the revision aspect, omitting the specific term 'update'.

requires modernization

This alternative emphasizes the need for modernization, implying an update to meet current standards.

could use a refresh

A more informal way to say that something needs to be updated or improved.

due for an overhaul

This indicates a more extensive update or renovation is necessary.

long overdue for an update

Emphasizes that the update is significantly delayed.

needs a facelift

Suggests a cosmetic or superficial update is required.

requires a tune-up

Implies a need for minor adjustments or improvements.

FAQs

What does "in need of update" mean?

It means that something is outdated or not current and requires changes to be brought up to date. It implies that improvements or revisions are necessary to make something more relevant or effective.

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

You can use it to describe anything that requires modernization or revision. For example: "This policy is "in need of update" to reflect current market conditions."

What are some alternatives to "in need of update"?

Alternatives include "requires updating", "needs to be updated", or "outdated". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "in need of update" formal or informal?

It falls in a neutral register, suitable for both professional and general contexts, but more direct phrasing like "requires updating" may be preferred in more formal writing.