are better placed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are better placed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is in a more advantageous or suitable position for a particular purpose or situation. Example: "In this context, those with prior experience are better placed to handle the challenges ahead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For those considerations, others are better placed to comment.

The Guardian

Although they are better placed, there is at least a sliver of trepidation in Argentina's camp.

The Guardian - Sport

"The Lords are better placed for this bill than they have been for any other bill.

The Guardian

We are better placed to take a group of people and determine pay scales for them".

The Guardian

Few people are better placed to assess changing conditions within the games industry than Jon Hare.

The Guardian - Tech

This is so officers are better placed to spot when people have mental health challenges.

The Guardian

The argument continues that shareholders are better placed at absorbing risk than other stakeholders.

Britannica

Such local monitors are better placed to record pre-election manipulations than small groups from overseas.

The Economist

Few are better placed as guides to its achievements and provocations.

The Economist

After his decade as chancellor, few are better placed than he to cope with the crisis.

The Economist

Employers are better placed than bureaucrats to judge which skills are in short supply.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are better placed" when comparing the relative suitability or advantage of different parties or approaches.

Common error

Avoid using "are better placed" when a simpler comparative adjective would suffice. Instead of saying "This method is better placed for efficiency", consider "This method is more efficient."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are better placed" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating that someone or something is in a more advantageous or suitable situation compared to others. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

13%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

8%

Science & Research

3%

Opinion

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are better placed" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression indicating a comparative advantage or suitability. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a comparative adjective phrase and is most frequently found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Encyclopedias contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's suitable for professional communication. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the area of advantage and consider simpler alternatives for basic comparisons. As an alternative, consider using phrases such as ""are in a better position"" or ""are better equipped"" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in a more advantageous position

Emphasizes having an advantage; slightly more literal.

are more suitably positioned

Highlights suitability; slightly more formal.

are in a stronger position

Focuses on strength; implies resilience or power.

are better equipped

Stresses preparedness; implies having necessary tools or skills.

are more favorably situated

Highlights favorability; suggests good fortune or circumstance.

are in a prime position

Emphasizes superiority; suggests being in the best possible spot.

are optimally positioned

Highlights optimization; implies perfect placement.

are favorably circumstanced

Stresses fortunate circumstances; slightly more literary.

are in a leading position

Emphasizes leadership; suggests being ahead of others.

are more likely to succeed

Focuses on the outcome; implies higher probability of success.

FAQs

How can I use "are better placed" in a sentence?

You can use "are better placed" to indicate that someone or something is in a more advantageous or suitable position. For example, "Experienced nurses "are better placed" to handle emergencies than new graduates."

What is a good alternative to "are better placed"?

Alternatives include "are in a better position", "are more suitably positioned", or "are better equipped", depending on the specific context.

When should I use "are better placed" instead of "are best placed"?

"Are better placed" implies a comparative advantage, while "are best placed" suggests the ultimate or most ideal position. Use "are better placed" when comparing options, and "are best placed" when identifying the single most suitable choice.

Is it correct to say "is better placed" when referring to a singular subject?

Yes, but you must ensure subject-verb agreement. The correct form for a singular subject is "is better placed". For example, "He "is better placed" to lead the team."