Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
what's necessary
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesTable of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
56 human-written examples
You should know what's necessary.
News & Media
I know what's necessary to do that".
News & Media
It was not a fun way to run, but it's what's necessary to compete.
News & Media
On purely rational grounds, human beings would eat only what's necessary to sustain life.
News & Media
"Then figure out what's necessary and what's not.
News & Media
"That's what's necessary in order to create a... growing city on Mars".
News & Media
Only move what's necessary.
Wiki
"Definitely I played unbelievable first two sets but that's what's necessary against Roger," Djokovic said.
News & Media
It's about doing what's necessary to be a man".
News & Media
If anything, it'll just confirm their assumption that he's not willing to do what's necessary.
News & Media
"It's a time when you purchase what's necessary.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "what's necessary" when you want to emphasize that a particular action or resource is not optional but is crucial for achieving a specific goal or maintaining a desired state. For example, "To succeed in this project, you need to invest in "what's necessary" technology and training."
Common error
While "what's necessary" is widely applicable, be mindful of overusing it in very informal settings where simpler alternatives like "what's needed" or a more descriptive phrase might sound more natural. In formal settings, consider the more grammatically proper "that which is necessary".
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "what's necessary" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It represents the essential actions, resources, or conditions required for a specific purpose. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in conveying the need for essential actions in varied scenarios.
Frequent in
News & Media
55%
Wiki
10%
Formal & Business
8%
Less common in
Science
7%
Academia
5%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "what's necessary" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to highlight essential actions, resources, or conditions. It functions as a noun phrase and appears most frequently in news and media, reflecting a neutral register. While widely applicable, its overuse in very informal contexts should be avoided. Alternatives include ""what is required"" or ""what is essential"". Ludwig's examples demonstrate its versatile usage across various scenarios, emphasizing its crucial role in conveying the need for indispensable actions.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
what is required
Focuses on the mandatory aspect of a need or task.
what is essential
Emphasizes the fundamental importance of something.
what is needed
Highlights a current lack or deficiency.
the necessary actions
Specifically refers to actions that must be taken.
the required steps
Implies a process with specific steps that are mandatory.
the essential requirements
Highlights the minimum standards or conditions that must be met.
what must be done
Emphasizes obligation and the lack of alternatives.
the only option
Highlights a lack of choices, leaving just one possibility.
the unavoidable measure
Focuses on actions that can't be dodged or avoided.
the imperative
Highlights the urgency and critical nature of an action.
FAQs
What does "what's necessary" mean?
The phrase "what's necessary" refers to something that is essential, indispensable, or required in a particular situation. It highlights the actions, resources, or conditions that are crucial to achieve a desired outcome or maintain a specific state.
How can I use "what's necessary" in a sentence?
You can use "what's necessary" to emphasize the importance of certain actions or resources. For example, "We must do "what's necessary" to protect our environment", or "The team needs to acquire "what's necessary" equipment to complete the project."
What can I say instead of "what's necessary"?
Alternatives to "what's necessary" include "what is required", "what is essential", or "what is needed". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.
Is it correct to say "that what's necessary"?
While grammatically unconventional, it is more appropriate to say "that which is necessary". However, the shorter form, ""what's necessary"", is far more common and generally acceptable in most contexts.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested