Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
are not preferred
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "are not preferred" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is not the favored option or choice in a given context. Example: "In this study, certain methods are not preferred due to their lack of accuracy."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Second, under uncertainty, scientific actors are not preferred collaboration partners.
Science
Some other methods in recent literature are discussed briefly, and reasons are given why they are not preferred.
Science
Current methods often use harsh reagents and organic solvents to control morphology, which are not preferred for biomedical applications.
Science
However, current techniques for fabricating nPRMMCs usually use nano-powders as raw materials, which are not preferred due to their agglomeration trend and harmful size.
Diabetes is one of the diseases where the constant drug levels are not preferred but needs a pulse of therapeutic concentration when the blood sugar levels are high.
Support vector machines (SVMs), though accurate, are not preferred in applications requiring high classification speed or when deployed in systems of limited computational resources, due to the large number of support vectors involved in the model.
Science
Recommenders should submit letters through the electronic application hard copy letters will be accepted but are not preferred.
Academia
The intensity in the velocity aberration region becomes attenuated, and, therefore, dihedral angle offsets for τ1 = τ3 are not preferred.
Science
Unfortunately, such direct interactions involve irreversible covalent bonding, and therefore are not preferred in multiple-cycle sensor operations.
Science
In addition, the Dutch and German headache questionnaires are not preferred because of their poor sensitivity among patients [11,12].
However, the patterns like amine, tertiary_carbon, alkylarylthioether and secondary_carbon are not preferred in any class of the inhibitors.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "are not preferred", ensure the context clearly indicates why the alternative is disfavored. Providing specific reasons enhances clarity and strengthens your argument.
Common error
Avoid using "are not preferred" excessively, as it can make your writing sound weak or evasive. Consider using active voice for a more direct and impactful statement. For example, instead of "These methods are not preferred", try "We do not prefer these methods".
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "are not preferred" functions as a passive voice construction indicating a lack of favor or desirability. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used to express that certain options are less suitable than others in a given context. Examples from Ludwig show its application in science, academia, and general writing.
Frequent in
Science
85%
Academia
10%
Wiki
5%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "are not preferred" is a versatile expression indicating that certain options are less desirable than others. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used in academic, scientific, and general contexts. Its meaning is closely aligned with alternatives such as "are not recommended" and "are not favored". When using this phrase, clarity is crucial; be sure to provide context and reasons for the preference. While acceptable, overuse of the passive voice should be avoided for more direct writing. The phrase commonly appears in scientific and academic sources, suggesting a neutral to formal tone.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
are not favored
Indicates a lack of liking or approval.
are not recommended
Implies that something is advised against.
are not advised
Suggests a cautionary note against something.
are not endorsed
Indicates a lack of official support or approval.
are not supported
Suggests a lack of backing or validation.
are not encouraged
Indicates a lack of motivation or incentive.
are disfavored
A more formal way of saying "are not favored."
are deprecated
Means something is discouraged or no longer in use.
are unwanted
Suggests something is not desired.
are rejected
Indicates something has been refused or turned down.
FAQs
How can I use "are not preferred" in a sentence?
You can use "are not preferred" to indicate that certain options or methods are less desirable than others in a given context. For example: "In biomedical applications, harsh reagents "are not preferred".".
What are some alternatives to "are not preferred"?
Alternatives to "are not preferred" include "are not recommended", "are not advised", or "are not favored". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.
Is it better to say "are not preferred" or "are disfavored"?
Both "are not preferred" and "are disfavored" are grammatically correct. "Are not preferred" is more common and generally suitable for most contexts. "Are disfavored" is more formal and less frequently used.
When should I use "are not preferred" instead of "are not recommended"?
"Are not preferred" suggests a matter of choice or preference, while "are not recommended" implies a stronger advisory against something, often due to potential problems or risks. Use "are not preferred" when indicating a subjective preference and "are not recommended" when indicating a more objective reason for avoidance.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested