needs to be set up

USAGE SUMMARY

"needs to be set up" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe the process of preparing something for use or application. For example: "This new computer needs to be set up before it can be used."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

"A much clearer, simpler and stricter independence policy needs to be set up and rigorously implemented".

The New York Times

That needs to be set up in advance of a semester; recruits must go through training and earn college credit.

The New Yorker

Some developing countries are insisting that a new institution needs to be set up to collect and administer such funds.

The Guardian

In larger groups and virtual groups, the conversation needs to be set up to be safe and effective.

Harvard Business Review

Thus, when livestock manure is considered in a SWAT simulation, a newly built fertilizer database needs to be set up to represent the localized condition more accurately.

Journal of Hydrology

It needs to be set up manually, there are many tools (some say too many) and some distractions (like the Chrome Store).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

If you have a Mac, you need to be set up as an administrator.

Harvard University

To get those protections, this tribunal will need to be set up in law.

The Economist

Stronger international treaties need to be set up to counter the threat, they insist.

The Guardian

No complex calculations need to be set up and even a beginner can master this technique in a very short time.

Methods in Enzymology

"I know chairs need to be set up, but honestly, if I have to dance in three pieces, I don't want to set up chairs".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "needs to be set up", ensure the context clearly indicates what requires setup and why it's necessary.

Common error

While "needs to be set up" is grammatically sound, consider using active voice constructions (e.g., "we need to set up the system") for more direct and engaging writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "needs to be set up" functions as a passive construction indicating a requirement for preparation or configuration. It's commonly used to express that something is not yet ready for use and requires certain steps to be taken. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "needs to be set up" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression indicating the necessity of preparation or configuration. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to inform and prompt action across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While versatile, writers should be mindful of stylistic choices, such as active versus passive voice, to enhance clarity and engagement. Alternatives like "requires establishment" or "demands configuration" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Its frequent presence in authoritative sources further validates its widespread acceptance and utility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requires establishment

Focuses on the necessity of establishing something, removing the passive voice.

necessitates preparation

Underscores the preparatory actions required.

demands configuration

Emphasizes the need for specific settings or arrangements.

requires to be configured

Highlights the need for something to be configured to work well.

is essential to implement

Focuses on the crucial aspect of putting something into effect.

installation is necessary

Focuses on the physical or technical act of installing something.

must be initialized

Implies starting a process or system for the first time.

is imperative to organize

Highlights the urgent need for structured arrangement.

calls for creation

Highlights the need for something to be brought into existence.

warrants the setup

Indicates justification for establishing something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "needs to be set up"?

Consider using alternatives like "requires establishment", "demands configuration", or "must be initialized" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "needs to be set up"?

While "needs to be set up" is grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "you need to set up") can often make your writing more direct and engaging.

What does "needs to be set up" mean?

The phrase "needs to be set up" indicates that something requires preparation, configuration, or establishment before it can be used or function correctly.

In what contexts is "needs to be set up" commonly used?

The phrase "needs to be set up" is frequently used in technical manuals, project planning documents, and general instructions across various fields, as evidenced by examples from news, science, and business contexts.