Need, need to or need for?

ScottsEnglish

When do we use "need", "need to" and when do we use "need for"?

A student recently wrote, "I have a need to more space when I study."

There are two ways to write this sentence correctly: "I need more space", or "I have a need for more space."

Need is a verb followed by an object. "He needs more money than he makes right now."

Need to is a verb form followed by a verb. "Students need to work on their own sometimes."

Need for is usually used with "have", and the verb "need" becomes a noun. "I have a need to read books; it's just a part of me."

Put the correct form in the following sentences:

1. I _____________________ for the company of animals.
2. She just ran 10 km and ___________________ a drink of water.
3. Just a minute, I __________________ see if the door is locked.
4. We ___________________ know the right answers!
5. I really _______________ a week in the sun.
6. I _________________ for a better job; mine is not fun anymore.

Click here for the correct answers.

1. I have a need for the company of animals.
2. She just ran 10 km and needs a drink of water.
3. Just a minute, I need to see if the door is locked.
4. We need to know the right answers!
5. I really need a week in the sun.
6. I have a need for a better job; mine is not fun anymore.