it needs maintenance

USAGE SUMMARY

'it needs maintenance' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that requires periodic repairs or upkeep in order to keep functioning properly. For example, "This machine is very old, it needs maintenance to keep running smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"It needs maintenance on an ongoing basis and we pretty much have been keeping up with it," he said of the Capitol.

The New York Times

Some people concerned about nuclear safety say that a buyer is under more pressure to keep a plant running, even if it needs maintenance, than an old-style monopoly utility with a captive customer population.

The New York Times

It is now manned when it needs maintenance by Neilly O'Reilly, a local man who retains the lighthouse keeper's deep affection for the rock and the stories from its past.

The Economist

"Yes it needs maintenance.

BBC

"[Skin] is an organ, and it needs maintenance.

Huffington Post

Check the differential to determine if it needs maintenance.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A crucial question is how well it performs in the field, where tropical temperatures and lack of electricity and Internet access--which the machine needs to signal that it needs maintenance--could pose problems.

Science Magazine

But like so many untouched houses it needed maintenance and updating.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Does it need maintenance?" I asked.

Huffington Post

"And it's mainly built of brick, which means it hardly needs maintenance," she added.

The New York Times

In addition to explaining some of the history of chiropractic work, Dr. Tupta told me "Essentially, our body is the most efficient machine ever invented but it also needs maintenance.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it needs maintenance", ensure that the 'it' is clearly defined within the sentence or preceding context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it needs maintenance" without a clear antecedent for 'it'. For example, instead of saying "It needs maintenance", specify what you're referring to: "The car needs maintenance."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it needs maintenance" functions as a statement indicating a requirement for upkeep or repair. Ludwig examples confirm that the subject 'it' refers to a variety of items requiring care.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it needs maintenance" is a common and generally correct way to express that something requires upkeep or repair. Ludwig AI confirms this. While grammatical and widely understood, the phrase's formality can vary depending on context. In formal or scientific writing, more precise language might be preferred. The analysis of usage patterns indicates its frequent occurrence in news and media, wiki, and science contexts. Ensuring clarity by specifying what 'it' refers to will make your writing more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires upkeep

Replaces "maintenance" with a synonym, focusing on ongoing effort.

it demands servicing

"Servicing" implies a more technical or specialized form of maintenance.

it has to be serviced

Emphasizes the necessity of servicing or maintenance.

it is in need of repair

Shifts the focus to a specific issue needing correction.

it calls for attention

More general, suggesting something needs to be looked at but not necessarily fixed.

it warrants attention

Similar to 'calls for attention' but with a slightly more formal tone.

it needs some work

A more general phrase, indicating that improvements or repairs are necessary.

it should be checked

Suggests a preliminary examination to determine if maintenance is required.

it could use a tune-up

Specifically implies that performance can be improved with minor adjustments.

it necessitates an overhaul

"Overhaul" suggests a comprehensive and potentially extensive maintenance process.

FAQs

How can I use "it needs maintenance" in a sentence?

Use "it needs maintenance" to indicate that something requires repairs or upkeep. For example: "The old bridge /s/it+needs+maintenance to ensure safety".

What is a good alternative to "it needs maintenance"?

Alternatives include "it requires upkeep", "it demands servicing", or "it is in need of repair", depending on the specific context.

Is "it needs maintenance" formal or informal?

The phrase "it needs maintenance" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain professional settings.

What does "it needs maintenance" mean?

The phrase "it needs maintenance" means that something requires periodic checks, repairs, or general upkeep to ensure it continues to function correctly or remains in good condition.