better than average

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better than average" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that exceeds the typical or expected level of quality or performance. Example: "Her performance in the competition was better than average, earning her a spot in the finals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Based on the result, vehicles are then rated on a scale of Much Better Than Average, Better Than Average, Average, Worse Than Average and Much Worse Than Average.

The New York Times

"Your recovery is better than average.

The New York Times

Because Babbage is, well, better than average.

The Economist

It's certainly better than average".

The Guardian

That's what it says: better than average.

The Guardian

Those are better than average times.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

"This was a better-than-average day".

The New York Times

(It's also a better-than-average herb when dried).

The New York Times - Food

What is the best way to bet on the sector's better-than-average historical return?

The New York Times

In fact, this better-than-average weepie seems to be hitting its marks very nicely.

The New York Times - Arts

Millions of people make better-than-average livings without going to university.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "better than average" to objectively compare something against a defined standard or average, ensuring clarity in your comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "better than average" when expressing purely subjective opinions; instead, opt for more descriptive language that conveys personal preference or qualitative judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better than average" functions primarily as an adjective phrase. It modifies nouns to indicate a quality or characteristic that exceeds what is typical or expected. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse contexts, from evaluating product reliability to describing personal skills.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "better than average" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something that exceeds a typical standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "above average" exist, "better than average" offers a nuanced way to express superiority. When using this phrase, ensure you're providing an objective comparison and avoid overuse in purely subjective contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

above average

A direct synonym, indicating a level higher than the norm.

superior to average

Emphasizes a higher degree of quality or performance compared to the average.

exceeding expectations

Focuses on surpassing anticipated results.

outperforming the norm

Highlights surpassing the standard level of performance.

a cut above

An idiomatic expression indicating a higher quality or standard.

top-notch

Informal term for something of excellent quality.

first-rate

Indicates excellent quality or performance.

high-caliber

Implies a high level of competence or quality.

remarkable

Highlights something noteworthy or exceptional.

exceptional

Signifies something that is unusually good or outstanding.

FAQs

How can I use "better than average" in a sentence?

You can use "better than average" to describe something that is above the typical or expected level. For example: "The restaurant's service was "better than average", making our dining experience enjoyable."

What are some alternatives to "better than average"?

Some alternatives include "above average", "superior to average", or "exceeding expectations". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "better than average" in writing?

It is appropriate when you want to objectively compare something to a defined average or standard. Ensure that the standard is clear or can be easily inferred by the reader.

What's the difference between "better than average" and "above average"?

While they are often used interchangeably, "better than average" may subtly imply a more significant difference from the norm compared to "above average". However, the distinction is usually minimal and context-dependent.