need to get done

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need to get done" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express tasks or responsibilities that require completion. Example: "There are several tasks that need to get done before the deadline next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The dishes still need to get done".

The New York Times

"What do I need to get done?

The New York Times

And that's something that we need to get done.

The New York Times

"My goal in the Senate is I need to get done what I need to get done.

The Washington Post

They need to get done very, very well.

Harvard Business Review

"Because home reminds me of all the things I need to get done.

The New York Times

He's got to do some other things that need to get done here".

The New York Times - Sports

"We do what we need to get done, and we do it well".

The New York Times - Sports

You got five sheets left, so whatever you need to get done.

The New York Times - Magazine

You do the things that need to get done," he said, snapping his fingers for emphasis.

The New York Times

I keep thinking of the 5,000 things I need to get done".

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine “need to get done” with specific deadlines to create actionable tasks (e.g., "The report needs to get done by Friday").

Common error

Avoid using "need to get done" excessively in passive constructions. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound vague or indirect. Consider active voice alternatives to strengthen your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need to get done" functions as a verbal phrase indicating necessity or requirement for an action to be completed. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need to get done" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that certain tasks or actions are required. Ludwig AI's analysis, supported by numerous real-world examples, confirms its widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to formal business settings. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to consider the specific context and audience when choosing alternatives for enhanced formality or precision. Prioritizing tasks that "need to get done" effectively contributes to better time management and goal achievement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has to be done

This alternative implies a strong requirement or obligation.

must be completed

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes obligation.

should be finished

This alternative suggests a recommendation rather than a strict necessity.

needs completion

This alternative is more concise and focuses on the act of completing something.

require attention

This alternative broadens the scope to include tasks that may not be fully 'done' but need focus.

demand action

This alternative highlights the urgency and necessity of taking action.

are essential

This alternative stresses the importance of the tasks.

are mandatory

This alternative indicates that the tasks are compulsory.

necessitate execution

This alternative is a very formal way of saying something needs to be done.

await fulfillment

This alternative is more literary and suggests a sense of anticipation for completion.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "need to get done" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "must be completed", "require completion", or "demand execution". These options convey a stronger sense of obligation and professionalism.

Is it correct to say "needs to get done" instead of "need to get done"?

Yes, "needs to get done" is grammatically correct when referring to a singular subject. For example, "The report needs to get done by Friday". Use "need to get done" for plural subjects (e.g., "The reports need to get done by Friday").

What are some informal alternatives to "need to get done"?

Informal alternatives include phrases like "has to be done", "gotta do", or "should be finished". Choose the alternative that best fits the context and your audience.

How do I prioritize tasks that "need to get done"?

Prioritize tasks by assessing their urgency and importance. Use methods like the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent/important) or simply rank tasks based on their impact on your goals. Focus on completing the most critical items first.