English Reference

Word

needing

Phoneticsneed·ing

US/ˈnidɪŋ/

UK/nˈiːdɪŋ/

Definitions

01requiring something

A1

v. the form of 'need' used when you are talking about requiring something right now.

v. the present participle of 'need', used in progressive constructions or as a modifier to indicate a requirement.

“The families needing help after the storm received food and water.”

“The charity focused its resources on families needing immediate shelter after the hurricane destroyed their homes.”

Usage

usually avoided in the present continuous; more common as a participle modifying a noun.

Pitfall

I am needing a coffee right now.

I need a coffee right now.

In standard English, 'need' is a stative verb and is rarely used in the continuous (-ing) form for simple desires.

Antonyms

02the act of requiring

B2

n. the state or act of having a need.

n. the gerund form of 'need', functioning as a noun to describe the state of necessity.

“His constant needing of attention made it hard for others to work.”

“The patient's constant needing of medical supervision required a rotating shift of three specialized nurses.”

03in a state of want

B2

adj. describing someone who requires help or support.

adj. the participial adjective form, describing a subject in a state of requirement or lack.

“The program provides extra classes for students needing more support.”

“The legislation was specifically designed to assist those citizens needing financial aid during the economic transition.”

Formal

Synonyms

This entry

Level
A1 · Beginner
Frequency
Common
Updated

Scan code

English Reference