it is in need of mending

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is in need of mending" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that requires repair or fixing, often in a metaphorical sense as well. Example: "The old chair has seen better days; it is in need of mending before it can be used again."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jane had several relationships that were frayed and in need of mending.

Johns Hopkins University

Jane's family was fraught with relations in need of mending.

Johns Hopkins University

I am the sort of girl to whom "crafty" means taking clothes in need of mending to the dry cleaner.

The New York Times

But in July, Barnes became president of Sara Lee, a company in need of mending (see: "Sara Lee Frays At Its Seams").

Forbes

Remember that you cannot fix wikiHow's myriad of edits in need of mending by sitting at the computer all day every day trying to accomplish this task.

WikiHow

City operations are in desperate need of mending, he has said, including an overhaul of public services for the 700,000 residents now living in a city that once was home to 1.8 million.

The New York Times

So why should he be in charge of mending it?

The Guardian

This is not unusual, and it is part of the process of mending things in your marriage.

WikiHow

A cheap, miserable contribution to an area of the city already in need of some mending, this luxury residential complex is about as glamorous as a toll plaza.

The New York Times - Arts

In the present study as well, it is likely that some MEND responses reflect synergistic effects of multiple mechanisms.

eLife

It is the first of three possible spacewalks needed to mend the station's critical cooling system.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it is in need of mending", ensure that the context clearly indicates what 'it' refers to. This phrase is most effective when the need for repair or improvement is not immediately obvious.

Common error

Avoid using "it is in need of mending" when a simpler phrase like "it needs fixing" would suffice. This phrase can sound overly formal or verbose in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is in need of mending" functions as a descriptive phrase, specifically an adjective phrase modifying a noun (either stated or implied). Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It indicates a state of disrepair or imperfection requiring correction.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is in need of mending" is a grammatically correct descriptive phrase used to indicate that something requires repair or improvement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly common, it presents a neutral to formal register suitable for various contexts, although simpler alternatives might be preferable in informal settings. Related phrases include "it requires repair" and "it needs fixing". As no examples were found, it's hard to give more specific advices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires repair

Focuses on the necessity of fixing something that is broken or damaged.

it needs fixing

Highlights the action of correcting or repairing something.

it needs to be repaired

Passive voice emphasizing the action required.

it requires maintenance

Implies ongoing care to keep something in good condition, broader than just fixing.

it's broken and needs fixing

More direct and emphatic, stating the problem and the solution.

it's damaged and needs repair

Similar to the previous one, emphasizes the damage and then the solution.

it is defective and needs correction

Focuses on a flaw and the need to rectify it.

it calls for improvement

Highlights the need for enhancement rather than just repair.

it would benefit from some repair work

A more polite and less direct way of suggesting that something needs fixing.

it's not up to par

Indicates that something does not meet the required standard or condition.

FAQs

What does "it is in need of mending" mean?

The phrase "it is in need of mending" means that something requires repair, fixing, or improvement. It can refer to physical objects or abstract concepts like relationships or systems.

How can I use "it is in need of mending" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe something that is broken or flawed and requires attention. For example, "The old system is in need of mending to improve its efficiency."

What can I say instead of "it is in need of mending"?

You can use alternatives like "it requires repair", "it needs fixing", or "it needs to be repaired" depending on the context.

Is "it is in need of mending" formal or informal?

The phrase "it is in need of mending" is generally considered more formal than alternatives like "it needs fixing". Use it in situations where a more elevated tone is appropriate.