need in English: need

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for need

item

need

meet

determine

when

Skip this question

🎓

Learn English for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers commonly use the word 'need' in everyday conversations, particularly when expressing requirements or desires, such as when someone says, 'I need to finish my homework before dinner.' It is also frequently used in requests and suggestions, like, 'You need to try this new restaurant.'

Synonyms & nuances

While 'require' and 'demand' can be synonyms of 'need,' they carry different connotations. 'Require' may imply a more formal or legal necessity, while 'demand' suggests a strong assertion or insistence, making 'need' more versatile and commonly used in everyday speech.

Culture

'Need' has its roots in Old English 'nēodian,' which means 'to be necessary.' Over time, it has maintained its essential role in expressing necessity. Interestingly, 'need' is not just about physical requirements; it often extends to emotional or psychological aspects, as in 'I need love' or 'We need each other.'

FAQ

Q.What does the word 'need' mean?

'Need' refers to a necessity or something that is essential. It indicates a requirement for something, whether it be physical, emotional, or situational.

Q.How do you use 'need' in a sentence?

'Need' can be used in various contexts, such as 'I need water,' to express a physical requirement, or 'We need to talk,' to indicate a necessity for communication.

Q.Are there common mistakes with using 'need'?

A common mistake is using 'need' in the past tense when discussing a current necessity. Instead of saying, 'I needed to go to the store,' you should say, 'I need to go to the store' if you still have that requirement.

Learn english with Maspeak →

English 1000