is needing

USAGE SUMMARY

'is needing' is not correct or usable in written English.
However, you could use the form 'needs' instead. For example, "This project needs more resources to be successful."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"But he is needing ndalama," Manyenga said.

The New Yorker

These, Martin, are what your wardrobe is needing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Here he is, needing a lift to Reno".

The Guardian - Travel

If a recent grad is needing library access, a library card might work for their needs.

University of California, Berkeley

"Rio is needing to reinforce its self-esteem," said Ruy Castro, a Brazilian author who wrote a book about Rio.

The New York Times

One example is needing to solve mechanical issues: "I've really enjoyed operating the machinery and learning how to fix problems when they arise," said Wentworth.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Global compromise is needed.

The New York Times

But caution is needed.

The Economist

Bold action is needed.

The New York Times

Greater transparency is needed.

The Economist

An answer is needed.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing necessity or requirement, use the standard verb form "needs" or "requires" instead of the non-standard "is needing". For example, instead of "The project is needing more funding", write "The project needs more funding".

Common error

Avoid using the continuous tense with the verb "need". While grammatically possible in some dialects, it is generally considered incorrect in standard English. Stick to simple present tense forms to maintain clarity and correctness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is needing" attempts to function as a progressive verb phrase, indicating an ongoing state of requirement. However, it deviates from standard English grammar. Ludwig AI highlights this grammatical issue, suggesting the use of "needs" instead.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

19%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "is needing" appears in various sources, including news, academia, and science, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. Ludwig AI recommends using the simple present tense form "needs" instead. Though frequently used, especially in certain contexts, it's best to avoid "is needing" in formal writing to maintain clarity and correctness. Alternatives like "requires" or "is in need of" can also be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

needs

Simple present tense, indicating a general requirement or necessity, replacing the continuous form.

requires

Formal synonym indicating a strong necessity; focuses on obligation.

is requiring

While more grammatically sound than the original query, it still has a formal connotation and emphasizes the act of requiring.

is in need of

Emphasizes a state of deficiency or lack, highlighting what is missing.

has need of

More formal and somewhat archaic, indicating possession of a need.

must have

Emphasizes strong desire or necessity, similar to wanting something urgently.

is lacking

Highlights a deficiency or absence; focuses on what is missing.

could use

Suggests something would be helpful or beneficial, but not strictly necessary.

would benefit from

Indicates that something would improve or enhance the subject.

is calling for

Implies a demand or request for something, often in a formal or public context.

FAQs

How can I correctly use the verb "need" in the present tense?

Use the simple present tense form "needs" (for singular subjects) or "need" (for plural subjects). For example, "He needs help" or "They need assistance". Avoid using the continuous form "is needing".

What are some alternatives to "is needing" that are grammatically correct?

You can use alternatives such as "needs", "requires", or "is in need of" depending on the context.

Is "is needing" ever considered acceptable in formal writing?

No, "is needing" is generally considered grammatically incorrect in formal writing. It's best to use the standard forms "needs" or "requires".

What's the difference between "is needing" and "needs"?

"Is needing" is a non-standard continuous form, while "needs" is the correct simple present tense form. Use "needs" to express that something is necessary or required.