Can a sentence with an infinitive be correct with "to be" understood? Example: Her hair needs cut. Or must you say to be correct:

Her hair needs TO BE cut.

Please answer asap. My son & I have a difference of opinion!

No: you must say: "Her hair needs to be cut", but it is more natural to say

"Her needs cutting".



PaulM

Ok...Paul,
Thanks. That wasn't the answer I wanted, but in western PA it is acceptable to say, "Her hair needs cut." But not to a wise guy high fluting know it all son for whom I paid his college education. In high school back in the old days, we were taught that the "to be" was understood and you didn't need to voice it. Thanks, for letting me vent! Guess I won't forward your answer to him. LOL!

Sorry, I typed my reply too quickly and omitted the word "hair":

No: you must say: "Her hair needs to be cut", but it is more natural to say

"Her hair needs cutting".



PaulM