need to be filled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need to be filled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that requires completion or fulfillment, such as a form, position, or gap. Example: "The application form has several sections that need to be filled before submission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Do any prescriptions need to be filled?

The New York Times

Don't stop them filling vacancies that need to be filled".

The Guardian

But still there are gaps that need to be filled".

The Guardian - Arts

Two other seats on the Fed's seven-member board also need to be filled.

The New York Times

"There are lots of holes that need to be filled in this neighborhood," she said.

The New York Times

Forms still need to be filled out in a way that produces copies.

The Economist

First, the hospital interviews the clinical staff about medical gaps that need to be filled.

The New Yorker

And yet there are still 194 Excel boxes that need to be filled".

The New York Times - Arts

There are a lot of gaps that need to be filled".

The New York Times

That leaves a lot of time that will need to be filled.

The New York Times

"Simple modern interiors need to be filled with things with thought and concept".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need to be filled" in formal writing, ensure the subject is clearly defined. For instance, specify what exactly "needs to be filled", such as "the vacancy needs to be filled" or "the form needs to be filled out."

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "need to be filled" in casual conversations can sound stilted. Consider using more natural alternatives like "has to be done" or "should be completed" to maintain a conversational tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need to be filled" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating a requirement or necessity for something to be completed or occupied. According to Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used to express that something is lacking and requires attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need to be filled" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression indicating that something requires completion or occupation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, from news articles to scientific publications. While it is broadly suitable, remember to consider the specific tone and audience when selecting alternative phrases for casual settings. Common usage includes addressing gaps, vacancies, or requirements that must be addressed, making it a crucial component in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have to be filled

Expresses a sense of obligation or requirement, similar to "must" but slightly less formal.

require completion

Focuses on the act of finishing something, emphasizing the necessity of completing a task or form.

are required to be filled

Emphasizes the formal requirement for completion, often used in official contexts.

demand fulfillment

Highlights the necessity of satisfying a requirement or obligation.

must be completed

Emphasizes the obligation to finish something, suggesting a rule or regulation is in place.

should be occupied

Indicates a preference or recommendation for something to be taken up or inhabited.

call for filling

Suggests an active request or demand for something to be occupied or completed.

necessitate completion

Highlights that completion is essential or unavoidable due to certain circumstances.

are wanting to be filled

Indicates a lack or deficiency that requires being addressed through completion or occupation.

warrant being filled

Suggests a justification or reason for something to be completed or occupied.

FAQs

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

You can use "need to be filled" to indicate a requirement or obligation for something to be completed. For example, "The position needs to be filled as soon as possible" or "All sections of the application form need to be filled out accurately."

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

Alternatives include phrases like "require completion", "must be completed", or "demand fulfillment", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "needs to be filled" instead of "need to be filled"?

Both "need to be filled" and "needs to be filled" are grammatically correct, but they are used with different subjects. "Need to be filled" is used with plural subjects (e.g., "These forms need to be filled") while "needs to be filled" is used with singular subjects (e.g., "This form needs to be filled").

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

It is appropriate to use "need to be filled" in both formal and informal writing when you want to express that something requires completion. However, consider the tone; in very informal contexts, simpler phrases might be more suitable.