it needs repairing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it needs repairing" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is a common way to say that something is broken or damaged and requires fixing. It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing a malfunctioning object or a building in need of repairs. Example: "The door handle is loose and it needs repairing before it falls off completely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The culture of the sport is broken, and it needs repairing.

The New Yorker

Always choose a bike with a straight saddle (a saddle tilted backwards means it needs repairing), check your tyres, light and brakes, and adjust the saddle to your height, making sure it's not loose: I remember one epic ride with the saddle turning on its base like a weather vane.

The Guardian - Travel

It needs repairing, but there's no money.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The party certainly knows it needs repair.

The New York Times

If it needs repair, I'll fix it".

The New Yorker

"Like the city, it's financially strapped, it's had many difficult times, it needs repairs, it's had a hard-working history.

The New York Times

"They say, 'This is our house and it is falling apart and it needs repairs.' Well, we have to pay for it".

The New York Times

If it needs repair, I'll fix it.... Does anybody truly believe that Romney is planning to spend any presidential time dreaming up ways to fix the safety net for the benefit of the very poor?

The New York Times

But once he arrives in France where the sun is brighter, the grapes tastier and the women more pliable, ooh la la! Before the property can be sold, it needs repairs, especially the tennis court, and he lingers there and begins to rediscover the simple pleasures of those halcyon childhood summers.

The New York Times

In any case, the previous negotiating mandate has already been adapted to reflect, at least partly, Lithuania's desire for stronger language on energy (Russia has blocked an oil pipeline to Lithuania's refinery since 2006, claiming that it needs "repairs").Yet the Lithuanians want more.

The Economist

If it needs repair, I'll fix it," Romney told CNN Wednesday morning.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it needs repairing", ensure the context clearly identifies what 'it' refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid consistently using passive constructions like "it needs repairing" in every instance. Vary your sentence structure for a more engaging writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it needs repairing" functions as a statement indicating that something is in a state of disrepair and requires fixing. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its grammatical correctness and provides examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it needs repairing" is a grammatically correct way to express that something requires fixing. Ludwig highlights its usage in contexts ranging from news to general information, with a slightly informal tone. While effective in conveying the message, remember that there are several alternative phrasings, such as "it requires fixing" or "it needs to be fixed", that may suit different contexts. Considering frequency across writing styles and target audiences is recommended for better fit. Ludwig's AI categorizes its grammatical status as correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires fixing

Replaces 'repairing' with 'fixing', a more general term for mending something.

it is in need of repair

Changes the structure to emphasize the state of disrepair.

it needs to be fixed

Uses a passive construction with 'fixed' instead of 'repairing'.

it calls for restoration

Employs 'restoration', suggesting a return to a previous condition, often used for historical items.

it demands mending

Replaces 'repairing' with 'mending', which implies a simpler fix.

it is crying out for attention

Uses a figurative expression to highlight the urgent need for repair.

it must be overhauled

Suggests a more thorough repair or reconstruction.

it's not in working order

Focuses on the functionality rather than the act of repairing.

it's out of order

A common way to say that something is not functioning correctly.

it's broken and needs fixing

Emphasizes the broken state and the need for fixing.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it needs repairing"?

Alternatives include "it requires fixing", "it is in need of repair", or "it needs to be fixed", depending on the specific context.

Is "it needs repairing" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it needs repairing" is grammatically correct and commonly used. However, consider if a more direct phrasing might be clearer.

What's the difference between "it needs repairing" and "it needs to be repaired"?

"It needs repairing" is a more concise form, while "it needs to be repaired" is a more formal passive construction. Both are correct, but the latter might be preferred in formal writing.

In what situations is it best to use the phrase "it needs repairing"?

Use "it needs repairing" when you want to concisely state that something requires fixing or mending. It's suitable for general use but consider alternatives for more formal contexts.