need to be adjusted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'need to be adjusted' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when making reference to something needing to be changed or modified in some way. Example sentence: "The settings on this machine need to be adjusted before we can turn it on."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These priorities need to be adjusted.

The New York Times

"Anything new continues to need to be adjusted," Selig said.

The New York Times - Sports

Do routes need to be adjusted, added, or removed?

Yale University

The description row does not need to be adjusted.

Columbia University

They don't need to be adjusted for inflation.

The New York Times

This finding indicates that the model parameter does not need to be adjusted any more.

Combustion and Flame

It says ovens vary, so cooking time "may need to be adjusted".

The New York Times

As a result, the 2003 P/E for Cendant does not need to be "adjusted".

The New York Times

"If the thresholds need to be adjusted, there's plenty of time to look at that".

The Guardian

"Someday these prices will need to be adjusted," Mr. Chávez warned.

The New York Times

degree/concentration requirement, your schedule may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need to be adjusted", ensure the context clearly indicates what specifically requires adjustment to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "the system needs to be adjusted", specify: "the system parameters need to be adjusted".

Common error

Avoid overusing "need to be adjusted" in passive constructions, as it can make your writing sound weak. Instead, consider rephrasing the sentence to use active voice. For example, instead of "the budget needs to be adjusted by the manager", write "the manager needs to adjust the budget".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need to be adjusted" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating a necessity or requirement for modification. It suggests that something is not quite right and requires changes to achieve a desired outcome. Ludwig examples show usage in diverse fields such as science, finance and baseball.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

25%

News & Media

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "need to be adjusted" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression indicating a necessity for modification or correction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in English writing. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, ranging from scientific reports and news articles to general instructions. While "need to be adjusted" is common, writers should be mindful of overuse, especially in passive voice constructions, and consider more active or precise alternatives when appropriate. Remember to clearly state what specifically needs adjustment to avoid ambiguity. With a high frequency of use across various authoritative sources, mastering the use of "need to be adjusted" will enhance your writing clarity and effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

require modification

Emphasizes the necessity of changing something, similar to "need to be adjusted", but uses more formal language.

demand alteration

Highlights that a change is not just needed but actively demanded, implying a higher degree of urgency.

should be modified

Suggests a recommended change, but slightly less forceful than "need to be adjusted".

must be revised

Implies a more formal or official process of review and change, suitable for documents or plans.

warrant refinement

Indicates that something deserves a more subtle or precise adjustment.

call for correction

Focuses specifically on fixing errors or inaccuracies, rather than general adjustments.

are subject to change

Highlights the possibility or likelihood of future adjustments, rather than the immediate need.

should be calibrated

Implies fine-tuning or precise adjustment, often used in technical or scientific contexts.

necessitate amendment

Similar to "require modification" but with a connotation of making legal or formal changes.

have to be tweaked

Uses a more informal word, "tweaked", to suggest small, minor adjustments are needed.

FAQs

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

You can use "need to be adjusted" to indicate that something requires modification or correction. For example: "The thermostat settings "need to be adjusted" to maintain a comfortable temperature".

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

Some alternatives include "require modification", "should be modified", or "must be revised", depending on the specific context and level of formality.

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

While "need to be adjusted" is inherently passive, consider using active voice when possible for a more direct and impactful statement. For example, instead of "the report "need to be adjusted"", you could say "the editor needs to adjust the report".

When is it appropriate to use "need to be adjusted" in formal writing?

"Need to be adjusted" is acceptable in formal writing when conveying a necessary change or correction. However, consider stronger or more precise alternatives like "require modification" or "demand alteration" for greater impact and clarity.