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Guest Posted 23 years ago
Grammar
Use of the word 'need'
Some dictionaries say that the word 'need' can be used as a model verb while others say that it is a semi model verb. I am confused! Is there any past form when it is used as a model verb? Are these sentences correct? 1. He needed do it again last night. (model?) 2. He needed to do it again last night. (verb to do?) Please advise. Thanks!
Top answer
Both versions are technically correct, since "need" can be used as a modal (not "model") verb. As a matter of style, the second version sounds better; I've normally only ever heard the modal version used in the present tense.
- Both versions are technically correct, since "need" can be used as a modal (not "model") verb.
- As a matter of style, the second version sounds better; I've normally only ever heard the modal version used in the present tense.
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Both versions are technically correct, since "need" can be used as a modal (not "model") verb. As a matter of style, the second version sounds better; I've normally only ever heard the modal version used in the present tense.
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