needs to be applied

USAGE SUMMARY

"needs to be applied" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe an action that needs to be taken in order to accomplish something. For example: "The brakes on my car need to be applied quickly to avoid an accident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Knowledge needs to be applied in order to be understood.

The Guardian

This same logic needs to be applied to university marketing.

The Guardian

The same logic needs to be applied to global gridlock.

The Guardian

Gender blindness needs to be applied very carefully.

Harvard Business Review

But political pressure needs to be applied adroitly.

The Guardian - Business

A discount needs to be applied to all the optimism.

The New York Times

Some context also needs to be applied to Morrisons' numbers.

Independent

Of course, this method needs to be applied quite carefully.

The New York Times

The same principle of fairness also needs to be applied to accountability.

The Guardian

A new finish then needs to be applied to the area.

The New York Times

Pressure needs to be applied now by those who want to see real change.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "needs to be applied", ensure the subject requiring application is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on passive voice with "needs to be applied". Instead, rephrase to emphasize who or what should perform the action for a more direct and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needs to be applied" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating necessity or requirement. It signifies that a particular action, method, or principle must be implemented in a given situation. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "needs to be applied" is a versatile modal verb phrase used to express the necessity of implementing a specific action or method. Grammatically correct and frequently used, it appears across diverse contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. Ludwig confirms its correct usage and broad applicability. While similar phrases like "should be implemented" or "must be utilized" exist, "needs to be applied" carries a distinct emphasis on requirement. When using this phrase, clarity is paramount; ensure the subject requiring application is well-defined for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should be implemented

Focuses on the action of implementing something, suggesting a plan is in place.

must be utilized

Emphasizes the necessity of using something for a specific purpose.

requires implementation

Highlights the need for a process to be put into effect.

demands to be used

Implies a strong need or justification for using something.

has to be enforced

Stresses the importance of making something compulsory or obligatory.

is required to be exercised

Emphasizes the necessity of putting a right, power, or ability into effect.

calls for the application of

Highlights a strong need or demand for the use of something specific.

necessitates the employment of

Indicates that a particular action or tool is essential for achieving a goal.

warrants the use of

Suggests that there's a good reason to employ a particular method or resource.

is essential to utilize

Underscores the critical importance of using something.

FAQs

How can I use "needs to be applied" in a sentence?

You can use "needs to be applied" to indicate that a specific action or method is required in a particular situation. For example, "This rule /s/needs+to+be+applied to all employees".

What are some alternatives to "needs to be applied"?

Alternatives include "should be implemented", "must be utilized", or "requires implementation" depending on the context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when writing "needs to be applied"?

While "needs to be applied" is passive, using active voice can often make your writing more direct and clear. Instead of "The solution /s/needs+to+be+applied", consider "We need to apply the solution".

What's the difference between "needs to be applied" and "should be applied"?

"Needs to be applied" implies a stronger requirement or necessity than "should be applied". The latter suggests a recommendation, while the former indicates something is essential.