this needs

USAGE SUMMARY

"this needs" is a valid use of English and can be used in both spoken and written contexts.
For example, "This needs to be done as soon as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

This needs broader acknowledgment.

The New York Times

This needs to change".

The New York Times

This needs watching.

The Economist

But this needs unpacking.

The New York Times

But this needs care.

The Economist

"This needs Sheeno sauce".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Why is this needed?

The New York Times

This need to move?

The New York Times - Books

This need not happen.

The New York Times

Why was this needed?

The New York Times

This need not pass.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this needs" to directly and clearly state a requirement or necessity. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, ensuring your message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "this needs" excessively in long, convoluted sentences. Break down complex ideas into simpler statements for clarity. For example, instead of "Considering all factors, this complex situation really needs a comprehensive and well-thought-out solution implemented swiftly", try "This situation is complex. It needs a comprehensive and well-thought-out solution. Implementation should be swift."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this needs" functions as a declarative statement indicating a requirement or necessity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a valid and straightforward way to express that something is lacking and requires attention or action. The provided examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, from stating what a dish requires to indicating a need for systemic change.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this needs" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate a requirement or necessity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts. While it appears most frequently in news and media, as well as scientific publications, it remains a useful phrase across diverse writing styles. When aiming for heightened formality, consider alternatives such as "this requires" or "this necessitates". Avoid overuse in overly complex sentences for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this requires

Replaces "needs" with "requires", indicating a demand or necessity for something.

this is essential

Replaces "needs" with "is essential", emphasizing the critical importance of something.

this demands

Substitutes "needs" with "demands", suggesting a strong requirement or expectation.

this is imperative

Replaces "needs" with "is imperative", highlighting the urgency and importance of something.

this necessitates

Replaces "needs" with "necessitates", implying that something is essential or unavoidable.

this is crucial

Replaces "needs" with "is crucial", highlighting the critical importance of something.

this calls for

Uses a phrasal verb to convey that something is required or appropriate in a given situation.

this warrants

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

this is lacking

Emphasizes the absence of something that is required or necessary.

action is required on this

Shifts the focus to the action needed, highlighting the necessity for intervention.

FAQs

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

You can use "this needs" to express a requirement or necessity. For instance, "This report needs to be submitted by Friday", or "This plant needs more sunlight".

What are some alternatives to "this needs"?

Alternatives include "this requires", "this demands", or "this necessitates", depending on the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "this needs" formal or informal?

"This needs" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, for more formal writing, consider using alternatives like "this requires" or "this is essential".

What's the difference between "this needs" and "this requires"?

While both phrases express necessity, "this requires" is often perceived as more formal and authoritative than "this needs". Use "this requires" when emphasizing a strict or official requirement.