need something to be done

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "need something to be done" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are asking for help with a task or when you want to emphasize its urgency. For example: "We need something to be done about the noise in the office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I need something to be done".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

What we need is something to be DONE about it.

BBC

I understand the need for something to be done.

The New York Times

"People have been saying that something needs to be done in Cardiff, they need support.

BBC

When demand starts to outstrip capacity something needs to be done.

BBC

"Something needs to be done".

The New York Times

"I think something needs to be done.

The New York Times - Sports

Something needed to be done.

The Washington Post

Something needs to be done about that.

The Washington Post

"It felt something needed to be done".

The New York Times - Sports

Obviously, something needed to be done.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "need something to be done" when emphasizing the urgency of a situation and the necessity for action. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "need something to be done" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive constructions can make your writing sound weak or vague. Consider active alternatives when possible for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need something to be done" functions as an expression of necessity or urgency. It emphasizes the requirement for an action to be taken, as confirmed by Ludwig and its examples. It is typically followed by a prepositional phrase or clause that clarifies what needs attention.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "need something to be done" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that highlights the necessity for action. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While suitable for various contexts, it's often used in News & Media and Academia to prompt action and address existing issues. Alternatives like "something must be done" offer similar meanings, while being mindful of overusing passive voice can strengthen your writing. Ultimately, "need something to be done" serves as a clear and effective way to emphasize urgency and call for intervention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something must be done

Emphasizes the obligation or requirement for action.

action is required

Highlights the necessity for immediate action.

something has to be done

Indicates inevitability or compulsion for action.

it's imperative to act

Stresses the urgency and critical importance of taking action.

intervention is needed

Focuses on the requirement for interference or involvement.

steps must be taken

Highlights the necessity for a series of actions or measures.

a solution is required

Emphasizes the need for a resolution or fix to a problem.

there's a need for action

States the existence of a requirement for action.

something should be addressed

Suggests the importance of dealing with an issue or problem.

measures must be implemented

Highlights the necessity of putting plans or systems into effect.

FAQs

How can I use "need something to be done" in a sentence?

You can use "need something to be done" when you want to express that an action is required or that a problem requires a solution. For example, "We need something to be done about the increasing pollution levels".

What are some alternatives to "need something to be done"?

Some alternatives to "need something to be done" include "something must be done", "action is required", or "something has to be done".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "need something to be done"?

While the phrase itself is in the passive voice, consider rephrasing the sentence in the active voice for a more direct impact, if appropriate. For example, instead of "Something needs to be done by us", try "We must do something".

What is the difference between "need something to be done" and "something needs to be done"?

Both phrases convey a similar meaning, but "need something to be done" focuses more on the necessity of the action, while "something needs to be done" emphasizes the subject requiring attention. The subtle difference lies in the emphasis.