"that need" vs "that needed"

Question

"that need" vs "that needed"

Both 'that needed' and 'that need' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'That needed' is the past tense form and is used when referring to something that was required in the past. 'That need' is the present tense form and is used when referring to something that is currently required.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

Use 'that need' when you want to refer to something that is currently required. It is the present tense form of the verb 'need.'

Examples:

The documents that need to be signed are on the table.
She highlighted the areas that need improvement.
The tasks that need attention were prioritized.
He identified the issues that need to be addressed.
The changes that need to happen were discussed.

Alternatives:

that require
that are necessary
that are essential
that are indispensable
that are needed

Use 'that needed' when you want to refer to something that was required in the past. It is the past tense form of the verb 'need.'

Examples:

I found the book that needed repair.
She provided the help that was needed.
The tools that needed replacement were identified.
He fixed the issues that needed attention.
The changes that needed to be made were discussed.

Alternatives:

that was needed
that required
that was necessary
that was essential
that was indispensable

Answer 1

that need

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to something that is currently required.

Answer 2

that needed

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to something that was required in the past.

"that need" vs "that needed"

that need

that needed

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