"need to add" vs "need adding"

Question

"need to add" vs "need adding"

Both 'need to add' and 'need adding' are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Need to add' is more commonly used and refers to the necessity of adding something, while 'need adding' is less common and more informal. The choice between them depends on the formality of the context.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

This phrase is used to express the necessity of adding something. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

Examples:

I need to add more details to the report.
You need to add salt to the soup.
She needs to add her signature to the document.
We need to add more chairs for the meeting.
Do you need to add anything else to the list?

Alternatives:

have to add
must add
should add
require adding
ought to add

This phrase is also used to express the necessity of adding something, but it is more informal than 'need to add'. It is suitable for casual conversations.

Examples:

The cake needs adding more sugar.
The document needs adding more information.
The team needs adding new members.
This room needs adding some decorations.
The report needs adding a conclusion.

Alternatives:

need to be added
need some adding
need some additions
need some extra
need some more

Answer 1

need to add

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

need adding

This phrase is correct but less common and more informal.

"need to add" vs "need adding"

need to add

need adding

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