that is needed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is needed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate something that is required or necessary in a particular context. Example: "Please provide the information that is needed to complete the application."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's not only kindness that is needed.

The Guardian

Anything else that is needed is Fairtrade or organic.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To lighten it, all that is needed is a whisk.

The New York Times - Food

The support that is needed now is financial.

The Guardian

Back to "normal" is the last thing that is needed.

The Guardian - Business

It's that level of determination that is needed now.

The Guardian

"Change that is needed now and at every level.

The Guardian

"The real upgrading that is needed is of our administration".

The Economist

Neither notion would produce all the money that is needed.

The New York Times

A turn or two of the pepper mill provides all the seasoning that is needed.

The New York Times - Food

For those, all that is needed is final installation of extra equipment, including set-top boxes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that is needed", ensure the context clearly establishes what requires the need to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "the support that is needed", specify "the financial support that is needed for the project".

Common error

Avoid using "that is needed" in overly simple sentences where it can be replaced with a stronger, more concise verb. Instead of "Information that is needed must be provided", try "Required information must be provided".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is needed" functions as a relative clause, specifically a restrictive (or defining) relative clause. It modifies a noun or noun phrase by providing essential information about which particular thing is being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through its numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that is needed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used relative clause that clarifies requirements or necessities across various communication registers. It serves to provide essential details, specifying which particular item or action is being discussed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, showing its widespread applicability. Writers should ensure they use this phrase in contexts where clarity and precision are key, and avoid overuse in overly simplistic sentences to maintain writing strength.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what is required

Replaces "needed" with "required", maintaining a formal tone but emphasizing the mandatory aspect.

what is necessary

Substitutes "needed" with "necessary", indicating essentiality in a slightly more emphatic way.

that is essential

Replaces the entire phrase to highlight the crucial or indispensable nature of something.

that is requisite

Uses "requisite" instead of "needed", adding a layer of formality and often implying a condition.

what one requires

Rephrases with a more personal construction, focusing on individual needs or demands.

what's indispensable

Shortens and intensifies the phrase to stress the critical and irreplaceable nature of something.

that is called for

Implies that something is not only needed but also appropriate or justified in a specific situation.

which is vital

Highlights the critical importance of something, especially for maintaining life or functionality.

that's crucial

A more direct and concise way of expressing that something is extremely important or decisive.

what is imperative

Emphasizes the urgency and necessity of something, often in situations where immediate action is required.

FAQs

How can I use "that is needed" in a sentence?

Use "that is needed" to specify requirements or necessities. For example, "Ensure you provide all the documentation "that is needed" for the application process."

What are some alternatives to "that is needed"?

Alternatives include "that is required", "that is necessary", or "that is essential", depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey.

Is it better to say "what is needed" or "that is needed"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but their use depends on the context. "That is needed" typically refers back to a specific noun, while "what is needed" introduces a general need. For example, "The tool "that is needed" is a hammer" versus "What is needed is a better plan."

What's the difference between "that is needed" and "that is wanted"?

"That is needed" implies necessity or requirement, while "that is wanted" implies desire or preference. For instance, "The funding "that is needed" for the project" suggests the funding is essential, while "The attention "that is wanted" is recognition for the success" expresses a desire for recognition.