it needs to be set

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it needs to be set" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is a passive construction, where "it" is the subject, "needs" is the verb, and "to be set" is the infinitive phrase. It indicates that something is required or necessary to be arranged or placed in a certain manner. Example: The timer on the oven is not working properly, it needs to be set to the correct time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Second, it needs to be set up with a "sunset" clause requiring its abolition and replacement after a set period, perhaps seven years, preferably on the basis of a referendum.

The Economist

It needs to be set by the private sector.

The New Yorker

It needs to be set up manually, there are many tools (some say too many) and some distractions (like the Chrome Store).

The Guardian

In a room someday without the coach, Sather said, Messier or "someone he has influenced" will say something to the team when it needs to be set aright.

The New York Times - Sports

Set the Brightness A picture's black level is controlled by the TV's brightness adjustment; it needs to be set dark enough so that the screen displays rich, deep blacks.

The New York Times - Tech

They were sold in a fire sale, so if there is to be an IPO [initial public offering] it needs to be set at the right price, otherwise it could turn into a 'get rich quick' scheme and the taxpayer will be footing the bill.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Perhaps Hancock had some grand idea why it needed to be set in November 1963.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Labour said it broadly supported the welfare cap although it needed to be set at a regional level to make it more fair.

The Guardian

Stone was convinced that in order for inner-city children to relate to Sesame Street, it needed to be set in a familiar place.

Wikipedia

But in many states it still needs to be set forth in the agreement.

Forbes

It also needs to be set within the context of the monumental events that began in 1789 and led up to the adoption by the newly elected national assembly of the Constitution of 1791.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required for your context. Alternatives may provide a more professional tone if needed.

Common error

A common mistake is using "it needs to be set" without a clear antecedent for "it". Always ensure the subject is explicitly mentioned or easily inferred from the surrounding text to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it needs to be set" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something requires adjustment, configuration, or establishment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it needs to be set" is a grammatically correct passive construction used to express a requirement for something to be arranged or configured properly. Ludwig AI validates this, demonstrating its usage across diverse contexts like news, science, and wikis. To maximize clarity, always ensure the subject, "it", is clearly defined in your writing. While it is generally neutral in register, consider alternatives like "it requires adjustment" or "it demands configuration" to better match formality requirements. Remember that the clarity and context of your expression influence the message greatly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires adjustment

Focuses on the necessity of tweaking or altering something to achieve the desired state.

it demands configuration

Emphasizes the need for specific settings or parameters to be established.

it is essential to calibrate

Focuses on the importance of precisely adjusting something for accuracy.

it necessitates establishment

Highlights the essential nature of founding or creating something.

it is vital to initialize

Highlights the importance of the preliminary process of setting something up to prepare it for use.

it must be arranged

Focuses on the organization or placement of something according to a plan.

it is imperative to adjust

Emphasizes the urgency and critical nature of making a modification to something.

it has to be determined

Emphasizes the need for a decision or conclusion to be reached.

it warrants definition

Emphasizes the need for something to be clearly explained or specified.

it should be positioned

Highlights the optimal placement or location of something.

FAQs

How can I use "it needs to be set" in a sentence?

You can use "it needs to be set" to indicate that something requires adjustment or configuration. For example, "The thermostat isn't working properly; "it needs to be set" to a higher temperature."

What are some alternatives to saying "it needs to be set"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "it requires adjustment", "it demands configuration", or "it must be arranged" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it needs to be set"?

Yes, "it needs to be set" is grammatically correct. It's a passive construction indicating that something requires adjustment or arrangement.

What's the difference between "it needs to be set" and "it needs setting"?

"It needs to be set" uses a passive infinitive, focusing on the action being done to "it". "It needs setting" uses a gerund, implying a more active or ongoing process of setting. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.