need to be replaced

USAGE SUMMARY

'need to be replaced' is not a correct and usable sentence in written English.
Instead, you would use a more grammatically correct phrase like 'needs to be replaced' or 'should be replaced'. For example: "This old door needs to be replaced."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They need to be replaced.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then they need to be replaced.

The Washington Post

The fourth floor carpet will also need to be replaced.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Also, some roof shingles need to be replaced.

The New York Times - Travel

Batteries need to be replaced every 600 cycles.

The Guardian

The bolts need to be replaced and the rust removed.

The New York Times

Some older ATMs might need to be replaced.

The Guardian - Business

They need to be replaced with qualified, nonpolitical professionals.

The New York Times

CONS: The vintage furnace will eventually need to be replaced.

The New York Times

Bednets need to be replaced about every three years".

The Guardian

Ribbons may need to be replaced on headdresses.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "need to be replaced" is commonly used, prefer "needs to be replaced" or "should be replaced" for grammatically correct writing, especially in formal contexts.

Common error

Ensure subject-verb agreement by using "needs to be replaced" when referring to a singular subject, instead of the grammatically incorrect "need to be replaced".

Linguistic Context

The phrase functions as a passive infinitive indicating a requirement or necessity for something to undergo a replacement. Ludwig AI points out that is not grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

24%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "need to be replaced" is very common across various contexts, including news, academia, and general discussions, Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically incorrect. For grammatically sound writing, especially in formal settings, it's best to use "needs to be replaced" or "should be replaced". Alternatives such as "must be replaced" or "has to be replaced" can also effectively convey the necessity of replacement. Always ensure subject-verb agreement to maintain grammatical correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should be replaced

Suggests a recommendation or advice for replacement.

has to be replaced

Implies an obligation or necessity for replacement.

must be replaced

Emphasizes the importance or requirement of replacement.

requires replacement

Focuses on the need or demand for replacement.

needs to get replaced

Adds an informal tone while indicating the necessity of replacement.

demands substitution

Highlights a strong need for replacement with something different.

warrants replacing

Suggests that the situation justifies the act of replacement.

is due for replacement

Indicates that something is scheduled or expected to be replaced.

is up for renewal

Suggests the item has reached its end of life

calls for substitution

Emphasizes a strong necessity and formal style in substitution.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to use "need to be replaced"?

While commonly used, "need to be replaced" isn't grammatically correct. The proper form is "needs to be replaced", ensuring subject-verb agreement.

What is a more formal alternative to "need to be replaced"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "should be replaced" or "must be replaced".

How do I ensure correct subject-verb agreement when talking about replacements?

Use "needs to be replaced" for singular subjects (e.g., "The component needs to be replaced") and "need to be replaced" for plural subjects (e.g., "The components need to be replaced").

When can I use "need to be replaced" instead of "needs to be replaced"?

Although "need to be replaced" is very frequently used, grammatically speaking is considered incorrect. You should use "needs to be replaced" especially in formal writing.