needs to be confronted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "needs to be confronted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an issue or problem that requires direct attention or action to address it. Example: "The underlying issues in our organization need to be confronted if we want to improve our work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

He needs to be confronted.

The New Yorker

To be sure, America has a long-term fiscal challenge that needs to be confronted.

The New Yorker

This is a form of crazed thinking that needs to be confronted and changed.

The New York Times

The reality of the fashion industry needs to be confronted, not hidden.

The Guardian - Opinion

But a May 9 letter inserts a troubling dimension into the Jewish-Catholic dialogue that also needs to be confronted.

The New York Times

Mr. Cornyn added, "This is a hot-button issue and one that needs to be confronted head on".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

They need to be confronted now.

The New York Times

Both these emotional crises need to be confronted.

The Guardian

Such evils, he continued, need to be "confronted squarely".

The New York Times

The issues need to be confronted, she says.

The Guardian

MR. EDWARDS -- Here's what it means, it means that Saddam Hussein needed to be confronted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you use this phrase, ensure that the subject requiring confrontation is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example: "Misinformation needs to be confronted with factual evidence."

Common error

Avoid using "needs to be confronted" excessively in passive voice, as it can make your writing sound weak and indirect. Instead, consider active constructions where the subject directly confronts the issue. For example, instead of "The problem needs to be confronted by management", try "Management must confront the problem".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needs to be confronted" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing the necessity of addressing a particular issue or situation. It highlights the requirement for direct action or attention. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Reference

4%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "needs to be confronted" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to emphasize the necessity of addressing a particular issue directly. Ludwig AI confirms it's proper usage in English writing. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, with a neutral to professional tone. When writing, be mindful of overuse and potential for passive voice constructions. Alternatives such as "must be addressed" or "should be tackled" can provide variety and nuance. Overall, it's a useful phrase for highlighting urgency and calling for action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must be addressed

Emphasizes the obligation to deal with something.

should be tackled

Suggests a more proactive approach to solving a problem.

requires attention

Highlights the need for focus and consideration.

demands a response

Indicates a situation that cannot be ignored.

warrants examination

Implies a need for closer scrutiny and investigation.

calls for action

Stresses the urgency and necessity of taking steps.

is imperative to address

Highlights the critical importance of dealing with something

cannot be ignored

Emphasizes the unacceptability of neglecting something.

presents a challenge to overcome

Focuses on the difficulty and the need for resolution.

begs for resolution

Implies an urgent need to solve a problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "needs to be confronted" to emphasize the necessity of addressing a difficult issue directly. For example: "Racism needs to be confronted at every level of society".

What can I say instead of "needs to be confronted"?

You can use alternatives like "must be addressed", "should be tackled", or "requires attention" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "needs to be confronted" or "needs confronting"?

"Needs to be confronted" is the grammatically correct passive form, while "needs confronting" is a less formal, gerund-based construction. The former is generally preferred in formal writing.

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

"Needs to be confronted" implies a stronger sense of urgency and necessity compared to "should be confronted", which suggests a recommendation or suggestion.