Need
/niːd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo have a necessity for something; to require.
/niːd/
To require something because it is essential or very important.
I need a break from work.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a Lego castle. If you're out of the little bricks that hold the roof, you *need* more bricks to finish the castle. It means you must have something because you can’t do what you want without it.
👶 For kids: When you need something, it means you really, really want it or have to have it.
More Examples
The plant needs water to grow.
The team needs to improve its communication.
How It's Used
"I need a new car."
"The project needs more funding."
"She needs to eat something."
A condition in which something is required or wanted; a lack of something.
/niːd/
A thing that is necessary or that you want very much.
The basic needs of survival are food, water, and shelter.
💡 Simply: It's something you REALLY have to have or do. Like, if you're really thirsty, your *need* is water!
👶 For kids: When you need something, it's something you have to have to be okay.
More Examples
The company identified a need for improved customer service.
There is a growing need for skilled workers in the tech industry.
How It's Used
"His primary need was for shelter."
"People have various psychological needs."
"We must address the needs of the community."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
in need of
Requiring help or something.
"The charity provides aid to those in need of food and shelter."
if need be
If it becomes necessary.
"I'll stay late, if need be, to finish the report."
From Old English *nēodian* meaning 'to be in want, lack,' from Proto-Germanic *nauðijaną*, related to *nauþiz* meaning 'need, compulsion.'
The word 'need' has been used in its core meaning of lacking or requiring since Old English times. Its uses are extensively documented across literary texts through various time periods.
Memory tip
Think of what you absolutely *must* have to survive and function – you *need* it.