a strong preference for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong preference for" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express a strong liking or inclination towards something. Example: She has a strong preference for chocolate ice cream over vanilla.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Mets showed a strong preference for college players.

The New York Times - Sports

Megalopae exhibited a strong preference for structurally heterogeneous substrates.

Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology

A man, you might say, with a strong preference for still waters.

The Guardian - Books

Beneficiaries showed a strong preference for low-cost plans this year.

The New York Times

The public also has a strong preference for national unity coalitions, according to opinion polls.

The New York Times

Guizot shared with Louis-Philippe a strong preference for a safe and sane foreign policy.

Britannica

Its board of directors had a strong preference for using a vendor in India.

Harvard Business Review

You have a strong preference for one firm, and your colleague favors the other.

Harvard University

Bees show a strong preference for flowers with intricate shapes and colorations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This option is great when you have a strong preference for an ingredient.

The New York Times - Tech

Both places show a strong preference for consumption over saving when times are good.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong preference for", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being preferred and why. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a strong preference for" when a milder preference is more accurate. Exaggerating the degree of preference can weaken your argument or misrepresent the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong preference for" functions as a noun phrase that typically introduces what someone favors or prefers. Ludwig AI shows its usage across diverse contexts to indicate a marked inclination.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong preference for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express a notable liking or inclination. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage across various domains, including science, news, and business. It is crucial to employ the phrase when you want to emphasize the intensity of the preference, ensuring clarity and avoiding exaggeration. Alternatives such as "a distinct liking for" or "a marked inclination toward" can be used to add variety to your writing while conveying similar meanings. When using this phrase, understanding its grammatical correctness, frequency, and contexts is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marked inclination toward

This alternative emphasizes a leaning or tendency, highlighting the direction of preference.

a distinct liking for

This option focuses on positive feelings, suggesting enjoyment and fondness.

a pronounced favor for

This phrase highlights the act of choosing or supporting one option over others.

a decided partiality to

This suggests an inherent bias or leaning in a particular direction.

a keen appreciation of

This alternative emphasizes understanding and valuing something highly.

a deep-seated affinity for

This conveys a more profound, emotional connection or attraction.

a special fondness for

Highlights a gentle liking, suggesting warmth and affection.

a notable leaning towards

Focuses on the direction of preference, making it clear which way someone is inclined.

a significant inclination to

Emphasizes the importance and degree of the inclination.

a decided taste for

Implies a developed appreciation, particularly in sensory or aesthetic contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "a strong preference for" in a sentence?

You can use "a strong preference for" to indicate that someone greatly favors something over another. For example, "She has "a strong preference for" tea over coffee."

What are some alternatives to "a strong preference for"?

Alternatives include "a marked inclination toward", "a distinct liking for", or "a pronounced favor for", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a strong preference of" instead of "a strong preference for"?

No, the correct preposition to use is "for". Saying "a strong preference of" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "a preference for" and "a strong preference for"?

"A preference for" indicates a general liking, while ""a strong preference for"" indicates a much more decisive and significant liking or inclination. The latter implies a higher degree of favoritism.