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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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need to be activated

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need to be activated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that requires a process or action to start functioning or to be made operational. Example: "The new software features need to be activated before you can use them."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Analysis of the OsIRO2-overexpressing plants indicated that transcriptional co-activators need to be activated by Fe deficiency to induce the expression of genes downstream of OsIRO2 (Ogo et al. 20072011).

Science

Rice

To suppress T-cell responses, MSCs first need to be activated by cytokines produced by activated T cells [ 14, 15], like interferon-gamma (IFN-γ).

This is due to the lower amount of network resources that need to be activated to accommodate lower user activity during a weekend day.

As skinned fibres lack plasma membrane, they need to be activated by exposure to solution containing the activating ion, Ca2+.

Using this index, each nOnceschedules its trallmitsion of the new configurequiredo neighboring nodesand keeps on transmitting it on the same slot in every "configuration" frame.e

Programs similar to those active in early development and wound healing need to be activated to overcome the controls that normally maintain tissue homeostasis.

With natural progesterone cream, the hormone is already in its active form, which means it doesn't need to be activated by the liver.

Medical campus IDs need to be activated at the Langdell Circulation Desk.

Non-metallic substrates, such as plastics or oxides, need to be activated before electroless metal deposition.

These re-installations do not usually need to be activated, and should be automatically validated when you install Windows Updates.

These reactions need to be activated via the homogeneous catalysis involving a metal complex and a primary alcohol.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need to be activated", ensure that the subject requiring activation is clearly defined. This avoids ambiguity and clarifies what action is necessary.

Common error

Overusing passive voice constructions like "need to be activated" can make your writing sound weak. Consider using active voice where appropriate to make your sentences more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "the system needs to be activated", try "you must activate the system".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

85%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need to be activated" functions as part of a verb phrase in the passive voice, indicating a requirement for something to be made operational. It describes a state where an action is necessary for a particular entity or system to begin functioning, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

19%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need to be activated" is a versatile construction indicating the necessity for something to be made operational. As Ludwig AI states, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It frequently appears in scientific and technical contexts, as well as in news and academic writing. Alternative phrases like "require activation" or "must be enabled" can provide similar meaning, depending on the specific context. While grammatically sound, writers should be mindful of passive voice overuse and ensure that the subject requiring activation is clear to avoid ambiguity.

FAQs

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

The phrase "need to be activated" is used to indicate that something is currently inactive but requires activation to function properly. For example, "The security system needs to be activated before leaving the building".

What are some alternatives to "need to be activated"?

You can use alternatives such as "require activation", "must be enabled", or "should be triggered" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "needs activation" or "need to be activated"?

"Needs activation" is a more concise form, often used in technical contexts or instructions. "Need to be activated" is more grammatically complete and suitable for general writing. Both are correct, but context dictates the best choice.

What's the difference between "must be activated" and "need to be activated"?

"Must be activated" implies a stronger obligation or requirement than "need to be activated". "Must" suggests that activation is essential or mandatory, while "need" suggests it is necessary for a specific purpose or function.

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Most frequent sentences: