# need

/ˈnid/ (US) · /nˈiːd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/need
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to require something

verb · CEFR A1

to have to have something because it is necessary or very important.

For teachers: to require something because it is essential or very important rather than just desirable.

- Plants need water and sunlight in order to grow well.
- The rescue team determined that the survivors would need immediate medical attention and a supply of clean drinking water.

Usage: This is a stative verb and is rarely used in the continuous form.

### 2. to be obliged

verb · CEFR A2

to have to do something.

For teachers: to be under an obligation or necessity to perform an action; often used as a modal or semi-modal verb.

- You need to finish your vegetables before you can have dessert.
- We need to address the underlying structural issues before we can proceed with the aesthetic renovations of the building.

Usage: In negative sentences and questions, it can act like a modal verb (e.g., 'You needn't go').

### 3. a requirement

noun · CEFR A2

something that you must have or do.

For teachers: a condition or situation in which something is required or wanted.

- There is a great need for new teachers in this city.
- The report highlighted an urgent need for increased investment in public transport to reduce urban congestion.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'in need of'.

### 4. poverty

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Literary

a state of not having enough money, food, or a place to live.

For teachers: a state of extreme poverty or destitution.

- The charity works to help families who are in great need.
- The foundation was established to provide relief to those living in dire need following the economic collapse.

Teaching tip: This sense is quite formal; in everyday conversation, people usually say 'poverty' or 'hardship'.

## Examples

- There is a great need for clean water in the village.
- The charity focuses on the basic needs of the community, such as food, shelter, and medical care.
- Psychologists often argue that the need for social belonging is as fundamental to human health as physical safety or nutrition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.