needs an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "needs an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a question or issue requires a response or solution. Example: "The question about the budget allocation needs an answer before we can proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

A school policy question that needs an answer?

The New York Times

The Hester question, though, also needs an answer.

The Guardian - Business

Absent that, it still needs an answer, and at this point none is forthcoming.

The New York Times

Then I get an e-mail that needs an answer, and all that other stuff submerges for a while longer.

The New York Times

For its part, if the pro-life movement wants not only to endure but to triumph, then it needs an answer to this argument.

The New York Times

You may not think that that's a question that needs an answer, but apparently someone did, because we now have WIGS.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

We need an answer".

The New Yorker

Need an answer?

The Washington Post

We need an answer soon.

The New York Times

I said I need an answer.

The Guardian

The question doesn't need an answer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and formality of your writing when using "needs an answer". While appropriate in many contexts, more formal alternatives might be preferable in highly professional settings.

Common error

While "needs an answer" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very formal documents. Opt for alternatives like "requires a response" or "necessitates clarification" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needs an answer" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that a question, problem, or situation requires a resolution. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and readily usable. Examples from Ludwig show it applying to school policies, scientific inquiries, and business decisions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "needs an answer" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that something requires a response or solution. As Ludwig AI points out, it is generally acceptable in various contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain professional settings. The phrase is frequently found in news, scientific, and business contexts, emphasizing the urgency or importance of addressing a specific question or issue. Alternatives like "requires a response" or "demands a solution" can be used for a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requires a response

Replaces "needs" with "requires", focusing on the necessity of a response.

demands a solution

Emphasizes the urgency and necessity of finding a solution.

calls for a resolution

Highlights the need to resolve a problem or issue.

is in need of a response

Adds a more formal tone, emphasizing the requirement for a response.

necessitates a reply

Uses stronger vocabulary to underscore the need for a reply.

warrants a response

Suggests that a situation justifies or merits a response.

is awaiting a response

Highlights that a response is expected or pending.

begs for a solution

Implies an urgent and critical need for a solution.

cries out for an answer

Evokes a sense of urgency and desperation for an answer.

requires clarification

Focuses on the need for making something clearer or easier to understand.

FAQs

How can I use "needs an answer" in a sentence?

You can use "needs an answer" to emphasize that a question or problem requires a solution. For example, "This question "needs an answer" before we can proceed."

What can I say instead of "needs an answer"?

You can use alternatives like "requires a response", "demands a solution", or "calls for a resolution" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "needs an answer" or "need an answer"?

"Needs an answer" is correct when referring to a singular subject. "Need an answer" is correct with plural subjects or when using "I/you/we/they". For example, "The question needs an answer" versus "We need an answer".

Is "needs an answer" too informal for professional communication?

While generally acceptable, consider the specific context. In highly formal settings, alternatives like "requires a response" or "necessitates clarification" may be more appropriate.