Need to — modal auxiliary

Need to is a modal auxiliary verb that we use to express need or requirement. Let’s dive deeper.

Need to is used both as an auxiliary and an ordinary verb to express necessity

Auxiliary form (need to)

• He needn’t smoke so much, it’s really bad for his health.
• We really need to learn another language apart from English.
• You needn’t wait at a red light.

Ordinary form (need)

• I think you’ll find that you have everything you need in the new office.
• Whatever you need just let me know.
• They desperately need my help now.

See also