be given preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be given preference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations where certain individuals or groups are favored or prioritized over others. Example: "In this hiring process, candidates with relevant experience will be given preference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The Old Commander ordered that children be given preference.

The New York Times - Arts

(CEE, ENVE, and BEE students will be given preference).

Cornell University

(CEE, ENVE and BEE students will be given preference).

Cornell University

Residents of nearby public housing projects would be given preference in hiring.

The New York Times

Residents of Farragut and two other public housing projects nearby would be given preference in hiring.

The New York Times

Parents of current or past public school students will be given preference in hiring.

The New York Times

It also suggested that Christian refugees from those countries would be given preference in the future.

The New York Times

Mr. Trump said Christians, who have been persecuted as minorities, would be given preference.

The New York Times

And qualified minorities and women may be given preference for jobs where they are significantly underrepresented.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

By permission, graduate students are given preference.

Cornell University

The problem, he said, was that incumbents are given preference.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be given preference", ensure the context clearly specifies the criteria for preference and the group or individuals receiving it. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be given preference" without specifying the reasons. For example, instead of saying "Applicants will be given preference", state "Applicants with five years of experience will be given preference".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be given preference" functions as a passive construction used to indicate that a subject will receive preferential treatment or priority. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. For example, "Children will be given preference".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

37%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be given preference" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote that something or someone will be favored or prioritized. As Ludwig AI indicates, it appears frequently in News & Media and Academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, be sure to clearly define the criteria for preference to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "be prioritized" or "be favored" can also be used depending on the specific nuance desired. The phrase's widespread usage and clarity make it a valuable tool for conveying information about selection processes and decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be prioritized

Highlights the act of assigning a higher level of importance or urgency.

be preferred

Focuses on the choice of one option over another based on desirability.

be favored

Emphasizes the act of being liked or supported more than others.

take priority

This implies actively assuming a higher level of importance.

be granted priority

Suggests a formal assignment of precedence or importance.

receive precedence

Indicates the act of coming before others in order or importance.

be placed first

Emphasizes the position of being at the top of a list or sequence.

be treated preferentially

Highlights the manner in which someone or something is handled, implying special treatment.

be advantaged

To have an advantage conferred.

be entitled to preference

Suggests a right or eligibility to be favored over others.

FAQs

How can I use "be given preference" in a sentence?

You can use "be given preference" to indicate that someone or something will be favored or prioritized. For instance, "In this competition, entries submitted early will "be given preference"".

What is a good alternative to "be given preference"?

Alternatives include "be prioritized", "be favored", or "receive priority", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "are given preference" instead of "be given preference"?

Yes, the correct form depends on the subject. Use "are given preference" for plural subjects (e.g., "Those applicants are given preference"), and "is given preference" for singular subjects (e.g., "This applicant is given preference"). "Be given preference" is the infinitive form.

What does "be given preference" imply?

It implies that a person, group, or thing is treated more favorably or is prioritized over others, often based on specific criteria or qualifications. This can influence decisions in areas like hiring, admissions, or resource allocation.