What you Need to know about NEED!

Grammar / By

The verb “to need” can be a confusing verb. In this article, we will try to explain exactly how to use need in English grammar. 

Is need an action verb?

No, need is not an action verb. An action verb usually has some physical movement. An action verb is important to know so that you know if you can use “get” instead of be in the passive voice.

Is need a modal verb?

The verb “To need” is a semi-modal verb.

Usually “need” is not a modal verb but it can function as a modal verb in the negative form.

You needn’t bring a hat for me.

You needn’t do your homework.

You can also use need as a modal verb in the positive when there is an absence of necessity.

Nobody need take the exam.

This is quite formal and old English and it is more common to say “Nobody needs to take the exam” 

Is need a linking verb?

The verb “to need” is not a linking verb.

Is need a preposition?

No, Need is not a preposition, it is a verb. A preposition is a word that connects a noun/verb to another noun in a sentence. Some common prepositions are on, in, at. Read my complete guide to prepositions here. 

Is Need an auxiliary verb?

No, need is not an auxiliary verb. An auxiliary verb is necessary to write in different tenses, moods and voices in English. Some common auxiliary verbs are Be, Do and Have.

Is need a stative verb?

Yes, need is a stative verb. It is not an action verb and not common to use in the present continuous verb tense.

Is need a transitive verb?

Yes, Need is a transitive verb. A transitive verb always needs some other object to make sense. 

It is impossible to say “I need” without saying what you need so therefore need is a transitive verb.

Is need a pronoun?

No, need is not a pronoun. A pronoun is a word that replaces a noun. Common pronouns are you,it, them, they.

You can learn the difference between subject and object pronouns here.

Is need a conjunction?

No, need is not a conjunction. A conjunction is a word that links words or sentence clauses together.

Common examples are that, which, who.

Is need an adjective or adverb?

No, need is not an adjective or an adverb. Need is a verb. An adjective is a word that describes a noun. An adverb is a word that modifies and adds meaning to a verb.  

Conor
Latest posts by Conor (see all)