need to be repaired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need to be repaired" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something requires fixing or maintenance. Example: "The old car has been sitting in the garage for years and now it needs to be repaired before it can be driven again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those levees need to be repaired.

The New York Times

The stained glass windows need to be repaired.

The New York Times

There are significant structural problems that need to be repaired".

The New York Times

Lots of damage from the past 8 years will need to be repaired.

University of California, Berkeley

Then there are the schools, bridges, roads and government offices that need to be repaired.

The Guardian

"Relationships with the EU will need to be repaired," he told TheCityUK's annual conference.

The Guardian - Business

Also, loose asphalt tiles suggest that the roof may need to be repaired or replaced.

The New York Times

Laws meant to further workers' rights to union representation need to be repaired or replaced.

The New York Times

The floorboards are loose and need to be repaired or replaced.

The New York Times

The roads need to be repaired more often; sometimes they just cave in.

The New Yorker

Even with an ideal cryopreservation, the damage from her tumor would need to be repaired.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "need to be repaired", ensure the context clearly identifies what requires repair. For example, "The bridge needs to be repaired before it can be used safely."

Common error

Avoid using "need to be repaired" in overly complex sentences where simpler phrasing would improve clarity. Instead of "The machine, which has been malfunctioning for weeks, needs to be repaired immediately to prevent further disruptions", consider "The malfunctioning machine needs immediate repair to prevent disruptions."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need to be repaired" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that something requires attention to restore it to a functional or original state. Ludwig AI affirms the phrase's correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need to be repaired" is a common and grammatically correct passive voice construction used to express the necessity of fixing or restoring something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, noting its broad applicability across various contexts. It's frequently found in news, scientific, and general content, signaling that an item, system, or even an abstract concept requires immediate attention for restoration. While versatile, it's essential to maintain clarity and avoid overusing it in unnecessarily complex sentences. Alternatives like "requires repair" or "needs fixing" can offer more concise options in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in need of repair

A more formal and emphatic way of stating the need for repair.

must be fixed

Emphasizes obligation, indicating a mandatory fix.

must undergo repair

Emphasizes the process or procedure that needs to be undertaken.

require mending

Focuses on the act of mending, implying a simpler fix.

have to be corrected

Implies an error or deviation from a standard that needs rectification.

warrant fixing

Suggests that the condition of something justifies the act of fixing.

demand restoration

Highlights the necessity of returning something to its original condition.

should be restored

Suggests a recommendation or advisability rather than an absolute necessity.

necessitate refurbishment

Indicates a more extensive process of renovation or upgrading is required.

call for maintenance

Highlights the need for upkeep and care to prevent further damage.

FAQs

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

Use "need to be repaired" to indicate something requires fixing. For example, "The roof leaks and "needs to be repaired" before winter."

What's a good alternative to "need to be repaired"?

Alternatives include "requires repair", "needs fixing", or "must be fixed" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "needs repair" or "need to be repaired"?

Both are correct, but "needs repair" is often more concise. "Need to be repaired" emphasizes the passive action, while "needs repair" focuses on the requirement.

Can "need to be repaired" be used for abstract concepts, not just physical objects?

Yes, while often used for physical objects, "need to be repaired" can also apply to abstract concepts like relationships or systems. For instance, "Their relationship "needs to be repaired" after the argument."