need of affection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need of affection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire or requirement for emotional support or love from others. Example: "After a long day, I often find myself in need of affection to feel truly at ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Ms. Walter, the social worker, determined that Father Murphy sought boys of a certain profile: medium build with black or blond hair, loyal and in need of affection or attention, sexually ignorant and lacking in social skills.

The New York Times

Re "New York Notes: 8 Million Survivors, in Need of Affection," by Gail Collins (Editorial Observer, Sept. 17): Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani's invitation to visit prodded me to plan a visit to New York City to "spend some money".

The New York Times

Re "New York Notes: 8 Million Survivors, in Need of Affection," by Gail Collins (Editorial Observer, Sept. 17): I live in the suburbs of Philadelphia, and believe me, we haven't forgotten about you, nor will we.

The New York Times

The child is a special target, since the need of affection and support and the potential intensity of emotional bonds are highly present in this early stage of human development.

Procedia Manufacturing

Do not turn your need of affection into an obsession.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It seems that he does have a true concern for them, but also he has his own needs of affection which get expressed in unhealthy ways".

The New York Times

She loved her family and friends, and "had a deep need of their affection and a genuine respect for the ordered, decent civilisation that they upheld".

The New Yorker

Once, moved by some filament of need for affection, Dakotah tried to hug Bonita, who was scrubbing potatoes in the sink.

The New Yorker

To describe my relationship to my laptop I need the language of affection - I need it, I depend on it, I'm attached to it, I would be bereft without it - more than the language of real necessity.

BBC

Psychological effects, perhaps, Tadie writes ("anxiety, need for affection, fear of being alone, nervous tension"), but not causes.

The New York Times - Books

How can I make him see that I need a smattering of affection and the odd compliment?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need of affection", consider the context. It's often more impactful to specify the type of affection or the source you're seeking it from (e.g., "need of parental affection", "need of a comforting hug").

Common error

Avoid overuse of "need of affection" in formal or professional contexts. Opt for more specific and professional language like "seeking emotional support" or "requiring positive reinforcement" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need of affection" functions primarily as a noun phrase describing a state or condition of requiring emotional support or love. It is constructed with a noun ("need") followed by a preposition ("of") and another noun ("affection"). According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

29%

Science

29%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need of affection" is a grammatically correct and usable expression signifying a desire for emotional support and love. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to scientific discussions. When writing, be mindful of the specific nuance you wish to convey and consider more descriptive alternatives depending on the context. Overall, "need of affection" serves as a useful way to articulate this fundamental human desire.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desire for affection

Emphasizes the longing or wanting aspect of affection.

yearning for affection

Highlights a deep, almost painful longing for affection.

longing for emotional connection

Broadens the scope to include emotional connection, not just physical affection.

craving for love and attention

Focuses on the intense need for love and being noticed.

need for emotional support

Highlights the supportive aspect of affection, useful in difficult times.

desire for warmth and tenderness

Emphasizes the gentle and comforting aspects of affection.

seeking emotional validation

Highlights the need for affirmation and acceptance through affection.

wanting to feel loved

A simpler, more direct way of expressing the need for affection.

desiring closeness and intimacy

Shifts focus to the relational aspects of affection.

looking for tenderness

Focuses specifically on the quality of gentleness in the affection desired.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "need of affection" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "desire for affection", "yearning for affection", or "longing for emotional connection" depending on the context.

Is "need of affection" formal or informal?

The phrase "need of affection" is generally considered neutral in tone. However, more formal alternatives like "requirement of emotional support" may be preferable in academic or professional settings.

What is the difference between "need of affection" and "need for affection"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "need for affection" is slightly more common and natural-sounding in contemporary English. "Need of affection" is also acceptable, but might sound slightly more formal or old-fashioned.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "need of affection"?

It's appropriate to use "need of affection" when describing a desire or requirement for emotional support, love, or physical touch. This could be in the context of personal relationships, childhood development, or even societal needs.