that needs fixing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that needs fixing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is broken, incorrect, or requires improvement. Example: "The car has a few issues that need fixing before we can take it on a long trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But there is plenty that needs fixing.

The Economist

There is a problem that needs fixing.

The Guardian

Probably a problem that needs fixing fast.

The New York Times

There's little that needs fixing among the 288 pages.

The New York Times

Another thing that needs fixing is the bad virtual tour.

The New York Times - Tech

You've got a nigglesome life problem that needs fixing?

The Guardian

They can also stop the whole assembly line if they see something that needs fixing.

The Economist

The tournament itself can be left alone or expanded; it's the human element that needs fixing.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Veron says that there isn't any just one problem that needs fixing.

The New York Times

If it can't, our infrastructure clearly isn't the only thing that needs fixing.

The New York Times

It seems that there's more that needs fixing than corporate responsibility.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that needs fixing", ensure the context clearly identifies what "that" refers to. Ambiguity can weaken your writing.

Common error

While "that needs fixing" is widely understood, it can sound too informal in academic papers or business reports. Opt for more formal alternatives like "that requires repair" or "that warrants attention" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that needs fixing" typically functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun or pronoun by specifying something requiring repair or improvement. It indicates a deficiency or problem that necessitates corrective action, as Ludwig AI confirms with many examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

8%

Social Media

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that needs fixing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for identifying something requiring repair or improvement. As supported by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or business settings. The phrase functions as a relative clause, aiming to highlight an issue and prompt corrective action. While common in news and media, as well as informal conversations, writers should be mindful of the register and consider more sophisticated options when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that requires repair

Replaces "fixing" with the more formal "repair".

that should be fixed

Uses a modal verb to express a recommendation or obligation.

that has to be fixed

Expresses a stronger sense of obligation or necessity.

that needs to be repaired

Adds a passive voice construction, emphasizing the action being done.

that is in need of repair

Rephrases the sentence to emphasize the state of disrepair.

that warrants attention

Shifts the focus to the importance of addressing the issue.

that calls for correction

Emphasizes the need to rectify something that is wrong.

that demands improvement

Highlights the necessity of making something better.

that has issues to resolve

Highlights the presence of problems that require resolution.

that presents a problem to solve

Focuses on the problematic nature and the need for a solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "that needs fixing" to refer to something broken, incorrect, or requiring improvement. For example: "The car has a few issues "that need fixing" before we can take it on a long trip."

What are some alternatives to saying "that needs fixing"?

You can use alternatives like "that requires repair", "that needs to be repaired", or "that warrants attention" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "that needs fixing"?

The phrase "that needs fixing" is suitable for both informal and neutral contexts. However, it might be too informal for academic or formal business writing, where more precise language is preferred.

Is "that needs fixing" grammatically correct?

Yes, "that needs fixing" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is commonly used. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is both correct and widely usable.