need attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need attention" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to something that is in need of care, attention, or consideration. For example, "The issue of climate change needs attention now more than ever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Many of them need attention.

The Economist

They need attention.

The New York Times

But all wounds need attention.

The New York Times

Some other entrees need attention.

The New York Times

Refrigerators also need attention — especially the coils.

The New York Times

"Ethics programs need attention and nurturing".

The New York Times

Liability and tax laws also need attention.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But innovation and change need attention.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Yet other segments of society need attention.

Yale University

Their caregivers need attention as well.

European Geriatric Medicine

Which units, departments, or individuals need attention?

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need attention", clearly specify what requires attention to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying 'This needs attention', specify 'This report needs attention regarding its factual accuracy'.

Common error

Avoid using "need attention" vaguely. Always provide context or specify what aspect requires attention. Generic statements like 'The project needs attention' lack clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need attention" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a requirement. It expresses that something or someone is in a state where it requires focus, care, or action to improve or maintain its condition. Ludwig examples show its wide applicability across different domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need attention" is a versatile expression indicating a requirement for focus, care, or action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. As shown by the examples, this phrase appears frequently across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. Related phrases such as "require focus" and "deserve priority" offer alternative ways to express similar meanings. When using "need attention", it is best practice to clearly specify what requires attention to avoid ambiguity. By avoiding vague statements and providing clear context, writers can effectively communicate the need for attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in need of care

Focuses on the requirement for maintenance, protection or treatment.

require focus

Emphasizes the necessity of concentrated effort or focus.

deserve priority

Indicates that something should be given precedence or importance.

demand consideration

Highlights the need for thoughtful deliberation or evaluation.

merit concern

Highlights the need for worry or attention due to potential problems.

warrant scrutiny

Suggests the need for careful and thorough examination.

call for review

Highlights the requirement to revise something

call for action

Stresses the urgency and necessity of taking concrete steps.

demand action

Similar to call for action but emphasizes the act of forcing or demanding

require handling

Focuses on the necessity of some steps to solve the problem

FAQs

How can I use "need attention" in a sentence?

You can use "need attention" to indicate that something requires focus or care. For example, 'The garden "needs attention" after the storm'.

What are some alternatives to "need attention"?

Alternatives include "require focus", "deserve priority", or "warrant scrutiny" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "needs attention" or "need attention"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "needs attention" for singular subjects (e.g., 'The document needs attention') and "need attention" for plural subjects (e.g., 'These issues need attention').

How can I make my writing more specific when using "need attention"?

Instead of saying something vaguely "need attention", specify the exact problem or area of concern. For example, instead of 'The proposal needs attention', write 'The proposal needs attention regarding the budget section'.