this needs to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this needs to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something requires action or attention. Example: "This needs to be addressed before the meeting tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This needs to change".

The New York Times

This needs to be eliminated.

The Economist

This needs to be challenged.

Independent

This needs to be remedied.

The Economist

This needs to end.

The Guardian

This needs to stop".

The Guardian

This needs to CHANGE.

The Washington Post

This needs to be worked on".

Independent

This needs to move forward now.

The New York Times

#ChapelHillShooting This needs to trend big.

Independent

All of this needs to stop.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this needs to", ensure that the context clearly specifies what "this" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, "This issue needs to be addressed promptly."

Common error

Avoid using "this needs to" without a clear antecedent for "this". Ambiguous references can confuse the reader. Always clarify what "this" refers to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this needs to" primarily functions as a modal phrase indicating necessity or requirement. It sets the stage for an action or condition that must be addressed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this needs to" serves as a crucial indicator of necessity or requirement, prompting attention or action. Its versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into various contexts, primarily in news, scientific, and formal business settings. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, emphasizing its role in clearly communicating the need for intervention or change. While alternatives exist, such as "this requires" or "it is essential that", "this needs to" remains a direct and effective way to express urgency and importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this requires

Emphasizes the necessity of something due to certain conditions or requirements. It focuses on the conditions that create the need.

this demands

Implies a strong need or expectation, often in situations where something is urgently required.

this necessitates

Suggests that something is an unavoidable consequence or requirement.

it is essential that

Highlights the critical importance of something, indicating it is indispensable.

it is imperative that

Stresses the urgency and importance of something, often in critical situations.

it's crucial that

Indicates the importance of something to the success or effectiveness of a situation.

this calls for

Suggests a particular action or response is necessary or appropriate in a given situation.

action is required

Highlights the need for immediate action to address a problem or situation.

something must be done

Emphasizes that action cannot be delayed or avoided.

this warrants

Indicates that something is justified or deserving of a particular action or consideration.

FAQs

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

The phrase "this needs to" is used to express that something requires action or attention. For example, "This situation needs to be handled with care" or "This problem needs to be solved immediately".

What are some alternatives to saying "this needs to"?

You can use alternatives like "this requires", "it is essential that", or "something must be done" depending on the context.

Is "this needs to be" grammatically correct?

Yes, "this needs to be" is grammatically correct. It's often followed by a past participle, such as "This needs to be fixed" or "This needs to be addressed".

What's the difference between "this needs to" and "this has to"?

While both express necessity, "this needs to" often implies a requirement based on a specific situation, whereas "this has to" can suggest an obligation or rule. The distinction is subtle but can influence the tone.