this needs to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this needs to be" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something requires action or change to be completed or improved. Example: "This needs to be addressed before we can move forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This needs to be eliminated.

The Economist

This needs to be challenged.

Independent

This needs to be remedied.

The Economist

This needs to be worked on".

Independent

This needs to be replicated elsewhere.

The New York Times

This needs to be your own work.

The New York Times

This needs to be very, very clear".

The New York Times

This needs to be addressed".

The New York Times

This needs to be reversed.

The Guardian - Opinion

This needs to be profiled.

The Guardian

This needs to be elaborated.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this needs to be" to clearly indicate a required action or a necessary state change. Ensure the context provides a clear understanding of what "this" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "this needs to be" excessively, especially in contexts where active voice would be more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "This needs to be fixed by the team", consider "The team must fix this".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this needs to be" functions primarily as a modal expression indicating necessity or requirement. It highlights that a particular action, state, or condition is essential or obligatory. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this needs to be" is a versatile phrase used to express necessity or requirement across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It is frequently found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, signaling the importance of the message. When writing, use it to clearly indicate essential actions or state changes, but be mindful of overusing passive voice. Consider alternatives like "this must be" or "this has to be" for emphasis or variation. Always ensure the context clearly identifies what "this" refers to. With a high source quality score and expert rating, its widespread usage confirms its relevance and effectiveness in modern English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this has to be

Indicates obligation or necessity, with a slightly more assertive tone.

this must be

Expresses a strong obligation or requirement.

this requires to be

Emphasizes a requirement or necessity, differing slightly in formality.

this is required to be

Similar to "has to be", but slightly more formal.

this is demanded to be

Indicates a firm and non-negotiable need.

it is imperative that this be

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the action or state.

this is crucial to be

Highlights the critical importance of the action or state.

it's vital that this be

Stresses the vital necessity of the action or state.

it is essential that this be

Highlights the essential nature of the action or state.

this warrants being

Suggests that the situation justifies the action or state.

FAQs

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

Use "this needs to be" to express that something requires attention, change, or action. For example, "This problem needs to be addressed immediately" or "This report needs to be submitted by Friday".

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

You can use alternatives like "this must be", "this has to be", or "this requires to be" depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey. Consider also "it is essential that "it is essential that"" or "it is imperative that "it is imperative that"".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "this needs to be"?

While "this needs to be" is inherently passive, ensure the context is appropriate. Sometimes passive voice is necessary, but active voice can often be more direct and clearer. For example, "The report needs to be revised" (passive) versus "The team must revise the report" (active).

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

"This needs to be" expresses a requirement or necessity, while "this should be" suggests a recommendation or expectation. "This needs to be completed by tomorrow" indicates a deadline, whereas "This should be considered" suggests a recommendation.