MODALS: NEED

1. When need is followed by another verb, it can have the forms either of an ordinary verb or (in British) of a modal auxiliary. Both forms are used to express necessity, to ask or to give permission usually permission not to do something. Everybody needs to rest sometimes. (ordinary verb) Its OK You neednt pay for that phone call. (modal auxiliary) 2. Need as a modal auxiliary is used mainly in negative sentences. But it is also possible in questions (as well as after if clauses). In interrogative sentences need usually implies that there is no necessity of performing the action. He neednt stay until the end. Need I explain everything twice? Need it have happened? I wonder if I need fill in a form. The teacher said that we neednt bring our books to class. (modal auxiliary need remains unchanged in reported speech) 3. Need as an ordinary verb has an infinitive form and participle and can be followed by an infinitive with to it means to have to do something as a necessity need + simple infinitive (affirmative, interrogative and negative forms) You need to work harder. I agree that she needs to be told about the arrangements. Your hair needs to be cut. or Your hair needs cutting. You will need to start work soon if you want to pass your exam. (it makes orders and instructions sound less direct) You will need to fill in this form before you see the inspector. Do you need to use the photocopier? Will you be needing me this afternoon? Tell her she doesnt need to work tonight. Wont you need to take some food? Notice that need cant be used after interrogatives when, where, who, what etc. Must is used instead: Where must I put it? Didnt need to refers to an unnecessary action which was not done. I didnt need (didnt have to) to go to the dentist again, luckily.

4. Neednt have+ past participle is used to express an unnecessary action which was actually done. (It was a waste of time or effort.) I neednt have cooked so much food. Nobody was hungry. (it was unnecessary - a waste of time, effort) You neednt have brought your umbrella. You are going by car. Compare: It started raining, so I didnt need to water flowers. I neednt have watered the flowers. Just after I finished, it started raining.

5. Other uses of need: If need be (= if it is necessary) If need be Ill ask Joe to help me. It neednt be (= it doesnt have to be) Need smb./smth.= to have a need for a person or thing You all need plenty of exercises. Do you need any help? Im here if you need me. The boy needs a slap! (deserves)