Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Of necessity; unavoidably; inevitably: "needs" is an archaic or formal adverb meaning that something must happen or be done because it is required by circumstances, logic, or nature. It emphasizes that there is no alternative or choice.

Usage

• The adverb "needs" is used to modify a verb, indicating that the action is compelled or obligatory. It is often used with "must" for emphasis (e.g., "must needs"). In modern English, it is considered formal, literary, or archaic. The more common contemporary equivalents are "necessarily" or "of necessity."

Examples

• Adverb:
  • He must needs go to the city for the meeting. (It is unavoidably necessary for him to go to the city for the meeting.)
  • The plan, being flawed, needs must be revised. (The plan, being flawed, inevitably must be revised.)
  • She needs must speak her mind. (She feels compelled by necessity to speak her mind.)

Advanced Usage

• "Must needs": This is a fixed, somewhat archaic construction where "needs" intensifies "must," emphasizing absolute necessity or inevitability.
  • The king must needs hear this report. (It is absolutely necessary for the king to hear this report.)

Variants and Related Words

• Necessarily (adv): As a matter of necessity; inevitably.
  • The conclusion does not necessarily follow from the premise.
• Inevitably (adv): As is certain to happen; unavoidably.
  • Inevitably, it started to rain.

Synonyms

• Necessarily: As a necessary result; inevitably.
• Inevitably: In a way that cannot be avoided.
• Perforce: Used to express necessity or obligation. (Also somewhat formal/archaic)

Notes on Different Meanings

• The word "needs" is also the plural form of the noun "need" (meaning requirements or necessities). However, as an isolated adverb, it has the distinct meaning explained above. Do not confuse the adverbial use with the noun.
  • Noun Example: The basic needs of life are food, water, and shelter.
  • Adverb Example: He must needs attend the ceremony.

Adverb

1. in such a manner as could not be otherwise
   • it is necessarily so
   • we must needs by objective