they would need

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they would need" is a perfectly valid and grammatically correct sentence fragment in written English.
It is most often used when the speaker is suggesting a necessary action or supplement that is required in order to achieve a certain goal. For example: "If they wanted to move to the next level, they would need to work harder and stay focused on their goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They would need the rest.

The New York Times

They would need them.

The Washington Post

They would need a guarantor.

The New York Times

They would need outside help.

The New Yorker

They would need nothing but God's support.

The Economist

Today, they would need a banquet hall.

The New York Times

They would need no laws, no courts, and no constitutions.

Princeton University

Otherwise, they would need voter approval to exceed the cap.

The New York Times

They would need a car and a parking space.

The New York Times

"They would need to do some more heavy re-engineering".

The New York Times

They would need the whole of the country behind them.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they would need", ensure the context clearly indicates who "they" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "they would need" if the subject is not immediately apparent from the previous sentence or paragraph. Always ensure the reader understands who "they" are.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they would need" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing a conditional necessity or requirement. As Ludwig AI points out, it suggests that a certain action, resource, or condition is essential for a group to achieve a particular outcome. Examples from Ludwig illustrate the phrase in various contexts, indicating essential actions or resources for success or continuation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they would need" is a common and grammatically correct modal verb phrase used to express conditional necessity. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its wide usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media, Academia, and Science. The phrase conveys that something is essential for a group to achieve a specific outcome. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly identifies who "they" refers to and avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "they will require" or "it would be essential for them" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would be essential for them

Highlights the importance or essential nature of the requirement.

they will find it imperative to

Emphasizes the crucial nature of the required action in achieving a goal.

they'd have to have

Expresses necessity using 'have to have', implying a requirement.

it was necessary for them

Emphasizes the necessity from an external perspective.

they are going to have to

Indicates a future necessity that is almost certain.

they must have

Expresses a strong degree of necessity or logical conclusion.

they were required to

Implies a formal or imposed obligation.

they will be forced to

Suggests a lack of choice and external pressure.

it was up to them to

Focuses on their responsibility to fulfill the need.

they should consider

Presents the action as a strong recommendation or advisable step.

FAQs

What does "they would need" mean?

The phrase "they would need" indicates that a group of people or entities require something in order to achieve a goal, continue a process, or meet a certain condition. It suggests a necessity or requirement for a specific action or resource.

How can I use "they would need" in a sentence?

You can use "they would need" to express a necessary condition. For example, "If the team wants to win, "they would need" to practice more often".

What's the difference between "they would need" and "they need"?

"They need" expresses a current or general requirement, while "they would need" often refers to a hypothetical or future requirement, or a need viewed from a past perspective. The modal verb "would" adds a layer of conditionality or prediction.

What can I say instead of "they would need"?

You can use alternatives like "they will require", "it would be essential for them", or "it was necessary for them" depending on the context.