In preference to

USAGE SUMMARY

"in preference to" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when expressing a choice or favoring one option over another. Example: "She chose tea in preference to coffee." Alternative expressions include "instead of" and "rather than."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I have always worn a skirt in preference to trousers.

The Guardian - Opinion

He also began to model in clay in preference to plaster.

The Guardian

Poverty is caused by the pursuit of commercial gain in preference to humanitarian interests.

The Guardian - Tech

Emily Dickinson used the dash in preference to any other punctuation.

The New York Times - Books

She made him her heir in preference to her own son.

The Guardian - Opinion

Cognitive behaviour therapy is recommended in preference to pills for mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

The Guardian

There is a certain consistency in Gibson's selection in preference to Andy Reid.

The Guardian - Sport

He consulted original sources, primarily court and government documents, in preference to relying on chronicles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Interestingly, the C4R4 is bound to the cobalt in preference to the trimerization product, C6R6.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Xerxes was designated heir apparent by his father in preference to his elder brother Artabazanes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And North did well to choose four hearts over four diamonds, in preference to five diamonds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "In preference to", ensure that the alternatives being compared are clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, "She chose tea, "in preference to" coffee, because it was a cold day."

Common error

Avoid using "In preference to" in very informal contexts. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal. Simpler alternatives like "instead of" or "rather than" may be more appropriate in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In preference to" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a choice or selection of one option over another. It sets up a comparison, showing that a particular item or action is favored. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase is commonly used in various contexts to express preference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "In preference to" serves as a prepositional phrase used to express a deliberate choice or preference for one option over another. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While generally neutral to formal in register, simpler alternatives like "instead of" or "rather than" might be more suitable for informal conversation. Being clear in stating the alternatives you are comparing is key to avoiding ambiguity and to use "in preference to" correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Rather than

Emphasizes replacement or substitution more strongly than a simple preference.

Instead of

Focuses on the act of substituting one item for another.

As opposed to

Highlights a contrast or opposition between the options.

In lieu of

More formal, suggesting a substitution due to unavailability or unsuitability.

In favor of

Indicates support or advocacy for one option.

More than

Emphasizes a greater degree of something over another.

Over

Simple preposition indicating higher priority or selection.

Preferably to

Similar meaning, but less common and can sound awkward.

Choosing to

Highlights the act of making a choice.

Opting for

Indicates a deliberate decision to select one option.

FAQs

How do I use "In preference to" in a sentence?

Use "In preference to" to indicate that one option is chosen or favored over another. For example, "I chose to walk, "in preference to" taking the bus."

What's the difference between "In preference to" and "instead of"?

"In preference to" suggests a deliberate choice based on liking or suitability, while "instead of" simply indicates a substitution. For instance, "He chose apples in preference to oranges" implies he likes apples more, whereas "He ate an apple instead of an orange" just states what he ate.

What are some alternatives to "In preference to"?

Some alternatives include "rather than", "instead of", "as opposed to", or "in lieu of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "In preference to" or "rather than"?

"In preference to" is generally considered more formal than "rather than". The choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality in your writing or speech.