better means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better means" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It refers to a method or way of doing something that is more effective or superior compared to other methods. Example: Using public transportation is a better means of commuting than driving a car in the city.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Better means stronger and harder, more compressed".

The New York Times - Sports

I don't know really what "better" means in this context.

The New Yorker

To see better means: more joy, less judgment.

The New Yorker

For Kyra, getting better means being betrayed once more.

The New York Times - Books

There are better means available to "facilitate the transactions between cultural and noncultural capital".

The New York Times - Books

Sadly, our continued snobbery about academic subjects being "better" means this won't happen.

The Guardian

Satellites will offer a far safer & better means of aerial reconnaissance.

The New Yorker

For consumer goods, from computers to cars, "better" means "better than lithium-ion".

The Economist

"It means better access to the European market and better means to serve our customers".

The New York Times

They have bigger budgets and better means to compete, and they also have Broadway.

The New York Times

The Gates Foundation is notable for its willingness to sponsor research into better means of prevention and treatment.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better means", clearly define what "better" signifies in your context. Quantify the improvement or specify the advantages.

Common error

Avoid using "better means" without specifying how it is better. Provide context and measurable benefits to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "a better means of communication", specify "a better means of communication that reduces response time by 50%."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better means" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies a more effective or superior method, approach, or technique for achieving a specific outcome. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "better means" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed term, indicating a more effective or superior method. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's commonly found in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying how the "means" are indeed "better". Consider related phrases like "superior method" or "more effective approach" for nuanced expression. While versatile, it maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for professional and academic discourse. The Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness, supported by abundant real-world examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superior method

Emphasizes the higher quality or effectiveness of the method.

more effective approach

Highlights the effectiveness of the approach compared to others.

improved technique

Focuses on the enhancement or upgrade of a particular technique.

enhanced strategy

Highlights the augmentation and improvement of a strategy.

more efficient way

Focuses on the efficiency and speed of achieving a result.

favorable avenue

Suggests a more positive or advantageous path or direction.

optimal solution

Emphasizes the idea of a perfect or most suitable solution.

advanced system

Highlights the innovative and cutting-edge nature of the system.

refined process

Focuses on the improved and polished nature of a process.

preferable course of action

Suggests a more desirable or advantageous action to take.

FAQs

How can I use "better means" in a sentence?

Use "better means" to indicate a more effective or superior method of achieving a goal. For example, "Investing in renewable energy is a "better means" of reducing carbon emissions than relying on fossil fuels."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "better means"?

Alternatives include "superior method", "more effective approach", or "improved technique", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "better means" in formal writing?

Yes, "better means" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing improvements or advancements. However, ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the means "better".

How does "better means" differ from "best means"?

"Better means" suggests an improvement over existing methods, while "best means" implies the most effective or optimal method currently available. Using "best means" indicates that it is the most efficient or suitable way to achieve a goal.