it needs to be sorted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it needs to be sorted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something requires organization or resolution. Example: "The files are all over the place; it needs to be sorted before we can proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"It's like a big bowl of spaghetti, and it needs to be sorted out".

The New York Times

But recycling it to make more bottles generally reaps an energy saving.The green green glass of homeTo recycle glass back into bottles, however, it needs to be sorted by colour.

The Economist

"I think it needs to be sorted one way or another".

BBC

"I wouldn't say it was dangerous but it needs to be sorted out before the final".

BBC

So it needs to be sorted out before the end of this week".

BBC

Like the other problems it needs to be sorted out fast.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

He said it needed to be sorted out before moves were made to attract even more people.

BBC

So it needs to be, sort of, effortless to produce.

BMC Health Services Research

"It still needs to be sorted out".

The New York Times - Magazine

Bazalgette admitted that people's access to the technology – or lack of it – was a "serious issue and needs to be sorted out".

The Guardian

Only the original signals (Si) need to be sorted (Sort N signals instead of sorting N2 signals).

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it needs to be sorted", ensure that the context clearly indicates what 'it' refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For instance, clarify 'it' by specifying, "The data needs to be sorted by date."

Common error

While generally acceptable, "it needs to be sorted" can sound informal in highly professional contexts. Opt for stronger, more precise verbs like "requires" or "necessitates" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it needs to be sorted" functions as a statement indicating that something requires attention and action to be organized or resolved. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts where a problem or disarray needs to be addressed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it needs to be sorted" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression indicating that something requires organization or resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While versatile, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives like "it requires sorting" in professional settings. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, followed by scientific contexts, reflecting its broad applicability. Remember to ensure clarity and precision when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires sorting

Focuses on the action required rather than the necessity.

it must be sorted

Highlights the obligation for sorting.

it necessitates sorting

Highlights the compulsory nature of the sorting action.

it needs organizing

Uses a synonym to 'sorting', focusing on systematic arrangement.

it requires arrangement

Emphasizes the need for orderly placement or organization.

it demands to be sorted

Conveys a strong need or urgency for sorting.

it is essential to sort it

Focuses on the importance of the action being taken.

it is imperative to sort it

Stresses the critical nature of sorting.

sorting is needed

Shifts the emphasis to the action rather than the subject.

arrangement is required

Specifies arrangement as the necessary action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it needs to be sorted" to sound more formal?

To achieve a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "it requires sorting", "it necessitates arrangement", or "it must be organized". These alternatives provide a more professional and precise expression.

What does "it needs to be sorted" mean?

The phrase "it needs to be sorted" means that something requires organization, resolution, or arrangement. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it is used.

Is "it needs to be sorted" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it needs to be sorted" is grammatically correct and widely used in English. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Are there situations where "it needs to be sorted" is not appropriate?

While generally acceptable, "it needs to be sorted" may sound informal in highly professional or academic contexts. In such cases, using alternatives like "it requires sorting" or "it must be organized" may be more suitable.