a mandatory preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mandatory preference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a specific choice or option is required or enforced, indicating that it is not optional. Example: "In this project, we have established a mandatory preference for using renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, in St . Louis ruled that the law did not give a "mandatory preference" but simply entitled the worker to seek the new job.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Juergen Braehmer is the next mandatory but who knows if that will materialise because if a unification came in, that automatically takes preference over a mandatory.

BBC

That is a mandatory duty.

The New York Times

"He was a mandatory [challenger].

The Guardian - Sport

"That mandatory counseling, it's a mandatory visit.

The New York Times

That charge carries a mandatory prison sentence.

The New York Times

Shakur was handed a mandatory life sentence.

The Guardian - Books

She favors a mandatory balanced budget.

The New York Times

The conviction carried a mandatory life sentence.

The New York Times - Sports

(There is a mandatory 20 percent gratuity).

The New York Times - Travel

Even though Lewis has a mandatory I.B.F.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a mandatory preference" when you want to emphasize that a particular choice is not optional but dictated by a rule, policy, or law.

Common error

Avoid using "a mandatory preference" when simply referring to a strongly recommended option. "Mandatory" implies a requirement, not just a suggestion. Use "preferred option" or "recommended choice" instead if it is not strictly enforced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mandatory preference" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific choice or option that is not discretionary but rather required or enforced. As Ludwig AI highlights, this contrasts with a simple preference, implying obligation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mandatory preference" denotes a choice or option that is required, not optional. While grammatically sound and understandable, this phrase is relatively uncommon, mostly appearing in news and media and wiki contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term signifies an enforced selection rather than a mere inclination. When writing, ensure you're accurately portraying a requirement rather than a suggestion, and consider stronger alternatives like "compulsory requirement" or "obligatory choice" for emphasis. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively communicate when a specific option is non-negotiable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an enforced preference

Highlights that the preference is actively enforced.

a mandated option

Highlights that the option is required by authority.

a compulsory requirement

Emphasizes the obligatory nature, focusing on the requirement aspect rather than the preferential aspect.

a compulsory selection

Highlights the element of obligation in making the selection.

an obligatory choice

Highlights that the selection isn't optional, but forced.

a required selection

Stresses that something must be chosen.

a set requirement

Focuses on the rigidity and established nature of the condition.

a non-negotiable option

Implies that the choice is firm and cannot be altered.

a prescribed procedure

Suggests a formal and regulated method.

a predetermined course of action

Indicates a fixed pathway without room for deviation.

FAQs

How can I use "a mandatory preference" in a sentence?

You can use "a mandatory preference" to describe a situation where a specific choice is required. For example, "The company has established "a mandatory preference" for using sustainable materials in all new projects".

What's a good alternative to "a mandatory preference"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a mandatory preference" could include "a compulsory requirement", "an obligatory choice", or "a required selection".

Is it correct to say "mandatory preference" without the article "a"?

While "mandatory preference" can be understood, it's grammatically more correct and natural to use the article "a" or "the" before "mandatory preference", depending on the context. Saying ""a mandatory preference"" implies one instance, while "the mandatory preference" implies a specific, already-defined preference.

What is the difference between "a mandatory preference" and "a strong preference"?

"A mandatory preference" indicates that something is required and not optional. In contrast, "a strong preference" suggests that something is highly favored but not necessarily required. The former is a rule; the latter is a suggestion.