state of need

USAGE SUMMARY

"state of need" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is in a difficult situation and needs or is deserving of help. For example, "The charity works hard to provide assistance to those in a state of need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"We are in a desperate state of need to nurture values in a positive, respectful and substantive way," Mr. Bess said.

The New York Times

I decide that I have conditioned myself to be in a constant state of need, and that this is a consequence of living in a capitalist system.

The Guardian

Books IV V deal with human efforts to leave the natural state of need (indigentia), while Books VI VIII address the problem of security created by weakness (imbecillitas).

SEP

The latter two states may coincide as well, though usually incompletely, in that humans may exit a pre-cultural state of need while still in a pre-civil state of insecurity, or they may enjoy the security of a civil state while relatively deprived of cultural goods.

SEP

In his open letter, the Bishop of Apatzingan asked rhetorically: "Can't [the army and the government] see we're in a state of need?" Whether he meant in need of security, in need of peace or in need of a respite from the fighting, most of his parishioners would agree.

BBC

Mirabel, of course, is in her own state of need.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Some said Governor Rowland cut income taxes too far over his first two terms in office, depriving the state of needed revenue.

The New York Times

The study becomes more and more detailed, pro-active and conscious of the state of needing corrections, substantial improvements and experimental developments.

Procedia Engineering

Meanwhile, forcing job-killing red tape on California's businesses and depriving the state of needed revenue is counterproductive.

Huffington Post

I was in a constant state of needing to pee because I never had time for that either, which made me very crabby and also made me talk really fast.

Huffington Post

To reflect different states of need, a five-dimensional profile measure was developed.

Journal of Health Economics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "state of need", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific needs are lacking or unmet. Providing specific details enhances the impact and clarity of your message.

Common error

Avoid using "state of need" without specifying the type of need. Instead of saying "They are in a state of need", specify: "They are in a state of need for food and shelter."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state of need" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a preposition or as a complement within a sentence. It is used to describe a condition or situation characterized by a lack of essential resources or assistance. Ludwig provides various examples of its usage in context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "state of need" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a situation marked by a lack of essential resources or assistance. According to Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used in both news and scientific contexts to highlight situations requiring support. While not exceedingly frequent, it is considered a correct and effective way to convey the severity of a situation. To enhance clarity, it is recommended to specify the particular needs involved. Alternatives like "condition of deprivation" or "situation of crisis" can be used to provide variety in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

condition of deprivation

Focuses on the lack of basic necessities or essential resources.

situation of crisis

Highlights the urgency and severity of the circumstances.

time of hardship

Emphasizes the difficulty and suffering experienced.

period of want

Underscores the absence of desired or needed resources.

circumstances of adversity

Refers to unfavorable or challenging situations.

urgent requirement

Highlights the pressing and immediate nature of what is lacking.

pressing demand

Emphasizes the insistence and necessity of the need.

exigent necessity

Stresses the critical and indispensable nature of the requirement.

desperate straits

Implies a situation of extreme difficulty and urgency.

dire emergency

Highlights the critical and perilous nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "state of need" in a sentence?

You can use "state of need" to describe someone or something experiencing a lack of essential resources or assistance. For example: "The organization provides aid to those in a "state of need" after the natural disaster".

What are some alternatives to "state of need"?

Some alternatives to "state of need" include "condition of deprivation", "situation of crisis", or "time of hardship depending" on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "state of need" in formal writing?

Yes, "state of need" is suitable for formal writing as it is a clear and professional way to describe a situation where assistance is required. Ensure the context supports the level of formality.

What's the difference between "state of need" and "in need"?

"State of need" is a more formal and descriptive phrase, while "in need" is a simpler, more direct way of saying the same thing. "State of need" often implies a more prolonged or severe situation than simply being "in need".