Learn about the difference between the homophones: knead and need

Definitions

knead

Knead is a verb that means to work dough or clay into a uniform mixture by pressing, folding, and stretching it with the hands.

Example

You need to knead the dough for at least five minutes to make it smooth and elastic.

Example

She kneaded the clay until it was soft and pliable.

need

Need is a verb that means to require something because it is essential or important.

Example

I need to go to the store to buy some milk.

Example

He needs to finish his homework before he can watch TV.

Tips To Remember the Differences

Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:

- To remember the difference between knead and need, think of the letter 'd' in knead as standing for 'dough'. - So, knead is used when working with dough or clay. - Need has an 'e' in it, which stands for 'essential' or 'important', so it is used when talking about something that is necessary.