it needs some tweaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it needs some tweaking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something requires minor adjustments or improvements. Example: "The report is well-written, but it needs some tweaking to enhance clarity and flow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"It needs some tweaking, but the hope is it can be adopted industrywide".

The New York Times

It needs some tweaking — a ruffle in back, a different necklace, a can-can skirt beneath, perhaps — but it makes the cut for his next show.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But in this instance, Bevan's wise word needs some tweaking; it's manipulative people who scapegoat.

Independent

Some might object that these are extreme cases, and that all they show is that the market, to be fully moral, needs some tweaking.

The New York Times

Definitely needs some tweaking.

TechCrunch

However, the service still needs some tweaking.

TechCrunch

Clearly, the system still needs some tweaking.

TechCrunch

Service needs some tweaking, though.

Los Angeles Times

The script is in great shape, and just needs some tweaking, so I feel like all that will come to fruition very quickly.

Huffington Post

It might need some tweaking along the way but it will help you to be more realistic about what you can accomplish.

Huffington Post

The original design was an inspired piece of public policy but it also needed some tweaking – particularly regarding Treasury's fantasy that companies could borrow at the Government bond rate on the promise of a tax refund.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it needs some tweaking" when you want to suggest improvements without being overly critical. It's a polite way to indicate that something isn't perfect but has potential.

Common error

In highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise language to describe the necessary changes. Instead of "it needs some tweaking", specify the exact areas needing improvement. For example, "The methodology requires further validation" provides more clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it needs some tweaking" functions as a comment or assessment, indicating that a particular item, plan, or system requires adjustments or minor modifications to improve its effectiveness or suitability. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Huffington Post

9%

Less common in

The Guardian - Sport

6%

Science Magazine

4%

The New Yorker

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it needs some tweaking" is a common and generally correct phrase used to indicate that something requires minor adjustments or improvements. Ludwig confirms its acceptability. While its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, more formal settings may warrant more precise language. The phrase is frequently found in news and media sources, reflecting its widespread use in everyday communication. When writing, use it as a polite way to suggest improvements without sounding overly critical. Be mindful of the context and consider whether more specific feedback would be more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires some adjustments

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the necessity of making changes.

it could use some refinement

This suggests a need for subtle improvements to enhance quality.

it needs a little fine-tuning

This implies making small, precise adjustments for optimal performance.

it needs a bit of work

This is a more general expression indicating that some effort is required to improve something.

it requires minor alterations

Similar to "adjustments" but emphasizes that the changes are not drastic.

it could be improved with a few changes

This is a more explicit way of saying that improvements are possible through specific changes.

it needs polishing

Suggests that the item is already good, but requires finishing touches.

it needs some finishing touches

This emphasizes the final steps needed to complete and perfect something.

it needs a revision

A revision implies a more thorough review and modification.

it could be better with a few fixes

Simple and direct, indicating that some problems need resolution.

FAQs

What does "it needs some tweaking" mean?

The phrase "it needs some tweaking" means that something requires minor adjustments or improvements to make it better or more effective.

What can I say instead of "it needs some tweaking"?

You can use alternatives like "it requires some adjustments", "it could use some refinement", or "it needs a little fine-tuning" depending on the context.

Is "it needs some tweaking" too informal for professional writing?

While "it needs some tweaking" is generally acceptable, it can be perceived as informal in certain professional contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "it requires adjustments" or "it needs refinement".

When is it appropriate to use "it needs some tweaking"?

"It needs some tweaking" is appropriate in casual conversations, emails to colleagues, or when providing feedback where a gentler approach is preferred. It suggests that the changes needed are not major.