Which is correct:
"The dishes need washed." or "The dishes need to be washed. "?

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The dishes need washed.

This phrase is correct in some English dialects, particularly in the Midland region of the United States.

This phrase is commonly used in informal speech in certain dialects to indicate that the dishes require washing.

Examples:

  • The car needs washed.
  • The clothes need washed.
  • The windows need washed.

Alternatives:

  • The dishes need to be washed.
  • The dishes need washing.
  • The dishes need a wash.
  • The dishes need cleaning.
  • The dishes need to be cleaned.

The dishes need to be washed.

This phrase is the standard form in English and is widely accepted.

This phrase is the standard way to express that the dishes require washing in formal or written English.

Examples:

  • The car needs to be washed.
  • The clothes need to be washed.
  • The windows need to be washed.

Alternatives:

  • The dishes need washed.
  • The dishes need washing.
  • The dishes need a wash.
  • The dishes need cleaning.
  • The dishes need to be cleaned.
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different English dialects. "The dishes need washed." is commonly used in some dialects, particularly in the Midland region of the United States, while "The dishes need to be washed." is more widely accepted in standard English.

Last updated: March 24, 2024

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