"need to be" vs "need doing"

Question

"need to be" vs "need doing"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Need to be' is used when referring to something that requires action or completion by someone. 'Need doing' is used when something requires action or completion in general, without specifying who will do it.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to something that requires action or completion by someone. For example, 'The dishes need to be washed.'

Examples:

The car needs to be fixed.
The report needs to be completed by Friday.
The room needs to be cleaned.

Alternatives:

must be
have to be
should be

This phrase is used when something requires action or completion in general, without specifying who will do it. For example, 'The garden needs weeding.'

Examples:

The house needs cleaning.
The lawn needs mowing.
The clothes need washing.

Alternatives:

needs to be done
requires doing
needs attention

Answer 1

need to be

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

need doing

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"need to be" vs "need doing"

need to be

need doing

Related Comparisons