need
word
/ˈnid/
NEED
/nˈiːd/
NEED
Definition
To require something because it is essential or very important. It can also describe a situation where someone must have something to achieve a goal or solve a problem.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in everyday speech and writing. Formal contexts may prefer 'require' but 'need' is widely understood. 'Need' often pairs with modal verbs (e.g., 'need to'). Learners sometimes confuse 'need' with 'want' — 'need' implies necessity, while 'want' indicates desire.
Spanish: necesitarPortuguese (BR): precisar - precisar dePortuguese (PT): precisar - precisar deChinese (Simplified): 需要Chinese (Traditional): 需要Hindi: जरूरतArabic: يحتاجBengali: প্রয়োজন - দরকারRussian: нуждаться - потребностьJapanese: 必要（ひつよう） - 必要とするVietnamese: cầnKorean: 필요하다 - 필요Turkish: ihtiyaç duymak - gerekUrdu: ضرورت - چاہیےIndonesian: butuh - perlu
Example Sentences
They need to finish their homework.
basic
I need water to drink.
basic
She needs a new phone.
basic
I really need a break after this long day.
natural
We need to leave now or we'll miss the train.
natural
Do you need any help with your project?
natural