What is another word for need?

Common synonyms for need include demand, motivation, want, penury, pauperization.

What is the opposite of need?

Antonyms of need include have, possess, lack, want, desire.

Synonyms for

Need

Verb / ni:d / Another word for need — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To require something essential or important.

Synonyms & similar words

demand motivation want penury pauperization involve require necessitate callfor obviate motive ask pauperism take postulate indigence require demand desire crave yearn long wish want necessitate must should lack requirement

Synonyms by register

Formal

require necessitate demand

Informal

gotta have could use want badly

Literary

crave ache for

Antonyms

have possess lack want desire own dispense with

Common collocations

need to have
need for speed
need to know
need assistance
need help
need money
need time
basic needs

Word family

noun need

verb need

adjective needed

adverb needfully

Usage note

The word 'need' can function as both a main verb and a modal verb. As a modal, it often expresses obligation or necessity, and is typically followed by 'to' and the base form of another verb.