a plain preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a plain preference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a straightforward or uncomplicated choice or liking for something over another. Example: "When it comes to coffee, I have a plain preference for black coffee without any additives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Preferably a plain gray one.

The New York Times - Magazine

A plain chronology seems manageable.

The New Yorker

A plain salesman could not.

The New York Times - Food

"A plain pine box.

The New York Times

A plain brick building.

The Guardian

On Thursday, one E.U. official said there was a preference for avoiding highly complex programs that used some of the financial engineering blamed for causing the crisis in 2008, in favor of a "plain vanilla" version.

The New York Times

A plain of ice was a floe.

The New Yorker

A plain old microfiber cloth.

The New York Times

a Plain radiograph.

Insights into Imaging

It was a plain monument.

Wikipedia

It is a plain cave.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a plain preference" when you want to emphasize the simplicity and lack of ornamentation in a particular choice or liking.

Common error

While "a plain preference" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing the word "plain" in formal writing. Consider stronger, more precise synonyms like "clear", "distinct", or "unambiguous" to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plain preference" functions as a noun phrase, where "plain" modifies the noun "preference". It describes the quality of the preference as being simple and uncomplicated. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a plain preference" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to express a simple and straightforward liking for something. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity, it is not a particularly common expression, as evidenced by its absence in the provided examples. Related phrases include "a simple preference" and "a clear preference". When using "a plain preference", be mindful of the context and consider whether a stronger or more precise synonym might be more appropriate, especially in formal writing. The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, conveying a sense of simplicity and directness. Considering the lack of examples, it is hard to establish the phrase's frequency across specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a simple preference

Replaces "plain" with "simple", emphasizing the uncomplicated nature of the preference.

a clear preference

Substitutes "plain" with "clear", highlighting the unambiguous nature of the preference.

a straightforward preference

Uses "straightforward" instead of "plain", focusing on the directness of the preference.

an uncomplicated preference

Replaces "plain" with "uncomplicated", emphasizing the lack of complexity in the preference.

a basic preference

Substitutes "plain" with "basic", suggesting a fundamental or essential preference.

a distinct preference

Uses "distinct" instead of "plain", highlighting the noticeable nature of the preference.

a marked preference

Replaces "plain" with "marked", emphasizing the obvious or noticeable nature of the preference.

a definite preference

Substitutes "plain" with "definite", highlighting the certain or sure nature of the preference.

a decided preference

Uses "decided" instead of "plain", emphasizing the resolute or determined nature of the preference.

a fundamental preference

Replaces "plain" with "fundamental", suggesting an underlying or essential preference.

FAQs

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

You can use "a plain preference" to indicate a simple or straightforward liking for something. For example, "I have "a plain preference" for black coffee over lattes".

What are some alternatives to "a plain preference"?

Alternatives include "a simple preference", "a clear preference", or "a straightforward preference", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a plain preference" the same as "a strong preference"?

No, "a plain preference" suggests a simple, uncomplicated liking, whereas "a strong preference" indicates an intense or powerful liking. They are not interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a plain preference"?

It is appropriate when you want to communicate a basic, uncomplicated liking or choice, without any added complexity or nuance. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though consider stronger synonyms for heightened formality.