# needing

/ˈnidɪŋ/ (US) · /nˈiːdɪŋ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. requiring something

verb · CEFR A1

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. the act of requiring

noun · CEFR B2

the state or act of having a need.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. in a state of want

adjective · CEFR B2 · Formal

describing someone who requires help or support.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- I am needing some help with these heavy boxes.
- The garden is really needing some water after this long week of hot and dry weather.
- While the project is technically finished, it is still needing a final review from the legal department to ensure we have met all the safety requirements.

---

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.