need

Something you must have, or a reason why something must be done.

• Food is a basic need.
• The school meets the needs of local children.
• Is there any need to call a doctor?

How to use it: need for something (There is a need for more homes.); no need to do something (There is no need to hurry.)

Similar words: requirement, necessity

Common phrases: need for something, basic need, meet a need

If you cannot manage without something, you must have it.

• Plants need water.
• She needed help with her bags.
• Do you need a ticket?

How to use it: need someone/something (We need more chairs.); need someone to do something (I need you to help me.)

Similar words: require

Common phrases: need help, need something, need more time

You must do something because it is necessary or important.

• I need to go home.
• We needed to buy more milk.
• Does this wall need painting?

How to use it: need to do something (You need to leave now.); need doing (The windows need cleaning.)

Similar words: have to, must

Common phrases: need to leave, need to know, need to check, need not worry

You want something very much and feel you cannot be happy or comfortable without it.

• I need a holiday.
• After the long walk, she needed a hot shower.
• You look tired; do you need a break?

Similar words: want, crave

Common phrases: need a break, need a holiday, need a hug