that needs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that needs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a requirement or necessity for something in various contexts. Example: "This project has a deadline that needs to be met by the end of the month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"There's always something that needs doing.

The Economist

Mr. Monks thinks that needs to change.

The New York Times

"No, but, seriously, that needs work".

The New Yorker

This is a crime that needs witnesses.

The New York Times

It's a flower that needs nourishment.

The New Yorker

This is a problem that needs addressing.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

There are some things that need fixing.

The New York Times

" Any other defensive gems that need mentioning?

The New York Times

I've got wigs that need repairing.

The New York Times

We face many problems that need solutions.

The New York Times

"There are certainly questions that need answers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that needs" to clearly indicate a requirement or something lacking that must be addressed.

Common error

Avoid stringing together multiple clauses with "that needs" as it can lead to convoluted and unclear writing. Break down complex sentences into simpler, more direct statements for better readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that needs" functions as a relative clause marker, introducing a clause that modifies a noun or pronoun by specifying a requirement, obligation, or deficiency. Ludwig AI identifies its purpose in adding necessary detail. Examples include "a problem that needs addressing" and "something that needs proof."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

31%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that needs" serves as a versatile tool for expressing necessity across various contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, its grammatical function is primarily as a relative clause marker, and its communicative purpose is to highlight requirements or deficiencies. While generally neutral in register, its frequency is common in news, wiki, and scientific sources. When writing, it's crucial to avoid overuse in complex sentences for clarity. Alternatives like "that requires" and "that demands" can offer variety. The analysis confirms that "that needs" is correct and usable, making it a valuable part of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that requires

Uses a different verb to express necessity, focusing on what is demanded or necessitated.

that demands

Emphasizes a strong requirement or insistence for something.

that necessitates

Highlights the inevitability of something being required.

that calls for

Suggests a need based on a specific situation or circumstance.

that warrants

Indicates that something justifies or merits a particular action or consideration.

that is essential

Focuses on the crucial or indispensable nature of something.

that is requisite

Highlights the formality and necessity of a specific requirement.

that is obligatory

Emphasizes the mandatory nature of something.

that is compulsory

Indicates a mandatory obligation, often enforced by rules or regulations.

that is vital

Stresses the critical importance and necessity of something for success or survival.

FAQs

How can I use "that needs" in a sentence?

Use "that needs" to introduce a clause specifying a requirement or something that requires attention. For instance, "This report is incomplete and that needs to be addressed immediately".

What are some alternatives to "that needs"?

You can use alternatives like "that requires", "that demands", or "that necessitates" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "that needs to be need"?

No, "that needs to be need" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is "that needs to be addressed", "that needs to be done", or similar constructions that use a past participle after 'to be'.

What is the difference between "that needs" and "what needs"?

"That needs" refers to a specific item or situation already mentioned or understood, while "what needs" introduces a general need or requirement. For example, "The car that needs repair is in the garage" versus "Tell me what needs to be done".