best to have

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "best to have" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something is preferable or advisable to possess or include. Example: "In this situation, it's best to have a backup plan ready in case of emergencies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's best to have a plan.

The New Yorker

So it's best to have one handy.

The New York Times

It's best to have no fear.

The Guardian

It's best to have more than 1 soil sample.

Cornell University

This now appears, at best, to have stalled.

The Guardian - Opinion

Probably one of the best to have ever lived.

The Guardian - Sport

It's best to have someone capable in the wings.

Harvard Business Review

You'll need some photos; it's best to have plenty.

Harvard Business Review

It would be best to have a "management champion" with the same missionary drive.

Engineering Documentation Control Handbook Configuration Management in Industry

In fact, it's best to have more than one person involved in caregiving.

Harvard University

It is usually best to have results from several samples – not just one.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When offering advice, use "best to have" to suggest a course of action that maximizes benefits or minimizes risks. For example, "When traveling, it's "best to have" travel insurance."

Common error

Avoid using "best to have" as a universal rule, as it implies a recommendation based on specific circumstances rather than a definitive requirement. Always consider the context and potential exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best to have" functions as a modal advice construction, typically used to recommend or suggest an action or possession as being beneficial or advantageous in a given context. Ludwig's examples show its versatility in various situations, from planning to personal safety.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

28%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "best to have" is a versatile modal construction used to offer recommendations or suggestions, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts, from informal advice to more formal guidance. While primarily found in Wiki and News & Media sources, it is adaptable across various domains. Remember that while the phrase suggests a beneficial action, it is not always a strict requirement and should be considered in context. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and it's perfectly appropriate for suggesting preferences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advisable to possess

Focuses on the recommendation of ownership or inclusion of something.

ideal to include

Emphasizes the optimality of including something in a given context.

preferable to incorporate

Highlights the advantage of integrating something within a system or plan.

recommended to consider

Suggests a strong suggestion for thinking about something.

wise to implement

Indicates that putting something into effect is a smart choice.

prudent to maintain

Highlights the cautious approach of keeping something in good condition.

advantageous to secure

Stresses the benefits of obtaining or ensuring something.

beneficial to utilize

Highlights the positive aspects of using something for a particular purpose.

opportune to acquire

Emphasizes the right timing for gaining possession of something.

expedient to adopt

Focuses on the practicality and efficiency of embracing something.

FAQs

How can I use "best to have" in a sentence?

The phrase "best to have" is used to suggest something is advisable or preferable. For example, "It's "best to have" a backup plan".

What are some alternatives to "best to have"?

You can use alternatives such as "advisable to possess", "ideal to include", or "preferable to incorporate" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to follow the advice given with "best to have"?

No, "best to have" implies a recommendation, not a strict requirement. It suggests a beneficial course of action, but the necessity depends on the specific situation and individual needs.

Which is more appropriate: "best to have" or "necessary to have"?

"Best to have" suggests something is highly recommended, while "necessary to have" implies it's essential. Choose based on whether the item or action is crucial or simply beneficial.