that needs to be updated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that needs to be updated" is correct and usable in written English and can be used in any context in which something needs improvement or updating.
For example: "My knowledge of current events needs to be updated; I haven't read the news in weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

On the page for that event, change the time, location and any other information that needs to be updated.

The New York Times - Tech

"This experience will probably cause some folks, us included, to go back and say: 'Is there something that needs to be updated?

The New York Times

Equally, any software that needs to be updated frequently is best held on a central server.Most new enterprise software, such as programs managing online marketplaces or customer relationships, fits these criteria.

The Economist

"We have a severe housing shortage, infrastructure that needs to be updated," Gloria Wilson, a tribe member, said, adding that the casino project and its accompanying debt were "too ambitious for our coffers".

The New York Times

An Englishman's home is his castle - it's an old phrase and probably one that needs to be updated, as the obsession with property is very definitely a British one.

The Guardian - Money

Education: What outdated/misleading information is still taught in schools that needs to be updated?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"I scoured and searched and found properties that needed to be updated and renovated," Mr. Faszholz said.

The New York Times

With continuously changing operational and business needs, system security is one of the key system capabilities that need to be updated as well.

Managing Trade-Offs in Adaptable Software Architectures

The georeferencing techniques developed over the summer will also be applied to the ~12,000 localities that need to be updated as part of the EPICC project (see below).

University of California, Berkeley

Using the sort-reduce algorithm on two large graphs, the researchers reduced the total data that needed to be updated in flash by about 90percentt.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Update (12/4): we want to clarify that, even with topological sort for cell updates, you should be sure to still only re-calculate cells that need to be updated when a given cell changes.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "that needs to be updated", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific element or aspect requires the update. Be precise to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "that needs to be updated" without a clear antecedent. Ensure the "that" has a direct and obvious reference to the item requiring an update to maintain clarity for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that needs to be updated" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun phrase by specifying something requiring revision or improvement. As Ludwig AI explains, it’s grammatically sound and commonly used, clearly indicating a requirement for change.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that needs to be updated" serves as a grammatically correct and generally accepted way to point out elements needing revision across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, although caution is advised to ensure the reference is clear and unambiguous. Its frequency is classified as uncommon, appearing most often in news, science, and academic domains. For alternative phrasing, options like "that requires updating" or "that should be revised" can add formality. Ensuring clarity in its application will maintain precision and effectiveness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that requires updating

Replaces "needs to be" with "requires", offering a slightly more formal tone.

that should be revised

Substitutes "needs to be updated" with "should be revised", emphasizing the act of reviewing and altering.

that calls for an update

Uses a more idiomatic expression, "calls for", to highlight the necessity of updating.

that warrants a refresh

Replaces "update" with "refresh", implying a renewal or revitalization.

that is due for an overhaul

Suggests a more extensive revision or complete change.

that demands attention for modification

A more verbose alternative emphasizing the need for changes.

that must be amended

Replaces "updated" with "amended", indicating a formal correction or addition.

that necessitates improvement

Focuses on the aspect of making something better rather than simply updating it.

that could benefit from revision

Suggests that revision would be advantageous, but not strictly necessary.

that is in need of a facelift

Uses a metaphor, "facelift", to indicate cosmetic or superficial updates.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "that needs to be updated" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "that requires updating" or "that should be revised". These options convey a sense of necessity while maintaining a professional tone.

What are some alternatives to "that needs to be updated" for casual conversation?

In casual settings, you might use phrases such as "that could use a refresh" or "that needs a facelift". These options are less direct and add a touch of informality.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "that needs to be updated"?

While grammatically correct, "that needs to be updated" can be vague. Always ensure the context makes it clear what "that" refers to. If the reference is unclear, rephrase to specify the item needing an update.

What's the difference between "that needs to be updated" and "that has to be updated"?

Both phrases express a requirement for updating, but "that has to be updated" implies a stronger sense of obligation or urgency. "That needs to be updated" suggests a general necessity, while "that has to be updated" indicates it's a non-negotiable requirement.