Gerund Word Explorer
Formal or informal

Need or require

Need

Everyday and neutral.

I need a new pen for the exam.

Require

Formal: rules, forms, instructions.

All applicants are required to bring a photo ID.

Remember: People need things; rules require them. In a WhatsApp message, need is perfect.

Short lessonFormal or informalWe speak differently to friends, teachers and officials. This change in style is called register.

More like this

Help or assistEveryday and neutral: works almost everywhere.Formal or informalCheck or verifyEveryday and neutral.Formal or informalAges 15–20Ask or enquireEveryday: speech, class, messages.Formal or informalAges 15–20