on a need basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a need basis" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something will be done or provided only when necessary. Example: "We will allocate resources on a need basis to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Depending on the requirements, one should be able to configure features on a need basis, which reduces development complexity and thus fosters development.

Journal of Systems and Software

We're an organization that does things on a need basis.

The New York Times - Sports

It is on a need basis agreed by both prisoner and the prison psychologist".

The Guardian

The UK's levy would come from our already assigned foreign aid budget and be allocated to humanitarian agencies on a "need" basis ensuring that money is not withheld and humanitarian needs are met.

The Guardian

With dynamic relaying, relays can be associated with base stations on a need basis rather than in a fixed manner which is based only on initial radio planning.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The virtual access node is a new notion anticipated for 5G mobile and wireless communications networks, where the functionalities at an access node will be run by various virtual machines that can be modified or extended based on a need basis of the services and/or use cases to be supported.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"It should be catered for on a needs basis.

The Guardian

NSW has been named a standout state by experts including Bonnor for allocating Gonski funding on a needs basis and directing money to the most disadvantaged schools.

The Guardian

On a needs basis, some treatment centers may provide partial financial assistance through various scholarship funds to patients who qualify for such assistance.

The New York Times

Employers should ensure that at least some funded internships are set aside on a needs basis and make it clear to university career centres that they are interested in addressing the existing underrepresentation of poorer aid workers.

The Guardian

Some of the prime minister's colleagues had called for the priority to be Christians, prompting Labor and others to declare that the places should be allocated "on a needs basis, without qualification or discrimination".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a need basis", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes a 'need'. This prevents ambiguity and ensures appropriate allocation of resources or actions.

Common error

Avoid overusing "on a need basis" in formal documents where more precise language can specify conditions. Alternatives like "as required" or "when necessary" might offer clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a need basis" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the timing or condition under which an action is performed or a resource is provided. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various contexts, from resource allocation to medical treatment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a need basis" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is provided or done only when necessary. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including science, news, and business. It is important to consider the context and define 'need' clearly to avoid ambiguity. While "on a needs basis" exists, "on a need basis" is preferred in formal writing. Alternatives like "as needed" or "when necessary" can enhance clarity in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as needed

Shorter and more direct, implying something is provided only when required.

when necessary

A straightforward alternative, emphasizing the timing of provision.

only when required

Similar to "when necessary", but with a stronger emphasis on the requirement.

based on demand

Focuses on the demand as the trigger for providing something.

contingent on need

More formal, highlighting that provision is conditional upon a need.

according to requirements

Shifts the focus to established requirements that must be met.

as circumstances dictate

Implies flexibility and adaptation to changing situations.

on an ad hoc basis

Suggests a case-by-case approach, rather than a systematic one.

depending on the situation

Highlights the importance of the specific situation in determining provision.

on a case-by-case basis

Emphasizes individualized consideration for each instance.

FAQs

What does "on a need basis" mean?

The phrase "on a need basis" means that something is provided or done only when it is necessary or required. It implies that resources or actions are allocated based on specific needs as they arise.

How can I use "on a need basis" in a sentence?

You can use "on a need basis" to indicate that something will be provided only when it is needed. For example, "We provide training "as needed", or on a need basis, to all new employees."

What are some alternatives to "on a need basis"?

Some alternatives to "on a need basis" include "as needed", "when necessary", or "only when required". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on a needs basis" instead of "on a need basis"?

While both phrases are used, "on a need basis" is generally considered more grammatically correct. "On a needs basis" might be acceptable in informal contexts, but "on a need basis" is preferred for formal writing.