needs must be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "needs must be" is correct and can be used in written English, though it is somewhat archaic.
It is typically used to express a necessity or obligation, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "In times of crisis, needs must be addressed with urgency and care."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Three distinct needs must be met:1.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These needs must be addressed.

The New York Times

People with urgent needs must be seen within 48 hours.

The New York Times - Health

"People's day-to-day needs must be met first.

The Guardian

These needs must be funded, immediately," he said.

The Guardian

"Patient needs must be met 24 hours a day, seven days a week," Dr. Nasca said.

The New York Times

Often, basic needs must be provided before people are ready – and willing – to engage with therapy".

The Guardian

In a broken system, this is how a broken patient's complex needs must be distilled.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Mutuality requires communication, since in order to be met, these needs must be expressed.

The New York Times - Magazine

An infant's physical needs must be met with warmth and not too much stimulation.

The New York Times

What is the order in which these needs must be fulfilled?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "needs must be", ensure the context clearly indicates a situation of unavoidable necessity or obligation. This phrase adds a touch of formality and can emphasize the urgency or importance of the matter.

Common error

Avoid using "needs must be" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound out of place and stilted in everyday contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it's necessary" or "it has to be done".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needs must be" functions as a modal expression indicating a strong sense of necessity or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usage in diverse contexts. It implies that certain actions or considerations are indispensable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "needs must be" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a strong sense of necessity or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While somewhat archaic, it remains a useful way to emphasize the urgency and importance of addressing certain requirements. Be mindful of the phrase's formal tone and avoid overuse in informal contexts. Alternatives like "requirements must be met" or "necessities have to be addressed" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. This phrase is very common across authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requirements must be met

Focuses on the fulfillment of specific conditions or requirements.

necessities have to be addressed

Highlights the act of dealing with essential requirements.

demands must be satisfied

Emphasizes the fulfillment of strong requests or expectations.

imperatives should be followed

Indicates a moral or ethical obligation to adhere to essential principles.

priorities need to be established

Highlights the importance of setting and acting on crucial matters.

essentials must be provided

Stresses the supply of basic necessities for survival or proper functioning.

criteria have to be observed

Underscores the importance of adhering to established standards or guidelines.

obligations should be fulfilled

Focuses on the completion of required duties or responsibilities.

prerequisites must be completed

Highlights the necessity of finishing required steps before proceeding.

conditions need to be fulfilled

Emphasizes the completion of specific stipulations or terms.

FAQs

How can I use "needs must be" in a sentence?

Use "needs must be" to express a sense of unavoidable necessity or obligation. For example, "In times of crisis, "needs must be" addressed with urgency and care."

What are some alternatives to "needs must be"?

You can use alternatives like "requirements must be met", "necessities have to be addressed", or "demands must be satisfied" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "needs must be"?

The phrase "needs must be" is appropriate in formal or literary contexts where you want to emphasize the unavoidable nature of a requirement or obligation.

Is "needs must be" considered archaic?

While "needs must be" is somewhat archaic, it is still grammatically correct and can be used in modern English to add a formal or emphatic tone. However, be mindful of your audience and the overall tone of your writing.