be preferred over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be preferred over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more options, indicating that one option is favored or chosen instead of another. Example: "In this study, organic farming methods are often preferred over conventional ones due to their environmental benefits."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ammonium appeared to be preferred over glufosinate as a nitrogen source.

Journal of Contaminant Hydrology

In addition, the results also suggest that simple methods should in general be preferred over complex ones.

Plosone

How and why will some ideas come to be preferred over others?

The New York Times - Arts

Despite the less frequent injections, Bydureon will not automatically be preferred over Victoza.

The New York Times - Health

In this case the covalent bonding seems to be preferred over the ionic bond.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's way too early to make a decision as to whether Levitra will be preferred over Viagra," he added.

The New York Times

Experience gained via volunteering, internships and work placements will always be preferred over a degree from a prestigious university.

The Guardian

Individual sulcal anatomy should be preferred over mean atlas locations.

NeuroImage

Otherwise, constant delays are to be preferred over variable ones.

International Journal of Human-Computer Studies

Normal terminology is to be preferred over academic slang.

Insights into Imaging

When model performance is not well known, or changes unpredictably, HF may be preferred over KF.

Advances in Water Resources

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be preferred over", ensure that the context clearly establishes the basis for the preference. Specify why one option is favored to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid stating that something should "be preferred over" another without providing a reason. Unsubstantiated preferences weaken your argument and can confuse the reader. Always clarify the rationale behind the preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be preferred over" functions as a comparative expression indicating a preference or higher desirability for one option over another. It is commonly used to express recommendations, choices, or evaluations, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be preferred over" is a versatile comparative expression used to indicate that one option is favored or more desirable than another. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and common usage, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, it's important to provide clear reasons for the preference to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your argument. Alternatives like "be favored over" or "be chosen over" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be favored over

Replaces "preferred" with "favored", emphasizing a positive inclination towards one option.

be chosen over

Focuses on the act of selecting one option instead of another.

be selected over

Similar to "be chosen over" but implies a more formal or deliberate selection process.

be prioritized over

Highlights the ranking of one option as more important than another.

be given precedence over

Indicates that one option is given priority or advantage over another.

take precedence over

Similar to "be given precedence over", but active rather than passive.

outweigh

Implies that one option's benefits or importance surpass those of another.

supersede

Suggests that one option replaces or takes the place of another, often due to being newer or better.

be esteemed more than

Indicates that one option is held in higher regard or valued more than another.

be found superior to

Emphasizes that one option has been judged to be better or of higher quality than another.

FAQs

How can I use "be preferred over" in a sentence?

Use "be preferred over" to indicate that one option is favored or chosen instead of another. For example: "In this study, organic farming methods are often "be preferred over" conventional ones due to their environmental benefits."

What are some alternatives to "be preferred over"?

You can use alternatives such as "be favored over", "be chosen over", or "be prioritized over" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "be preferred over" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "be preferred over" when you want to express that one thing is generally favored or considered better than another in a particular context. Make sure to provide a clear reason or justification for the preference.

Is there a difference between "be preferred over" and "be better than"?

"Be preferred over" implies a subjective choice or a contextual advantage, while "be better than" suggests an objective superiority. For instance, "classical music might "be preferred over" pop music for studying", whereas "a titanium alloy "is better than" aluminum for high-stress applications".