better than that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better than that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is of a higher quality or standard than what has been presented or suggested. Example: "I know you can do better than that; I've seen your previous work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She's better than that.

Independent

"He's better than that.

The New York Times

"I'm better than that.

The New York Times - Sports

"Americans are better than that.

The New York Times

We deserve better than that.

The New York Times

Anything is better than that.

The New York Times

But we're better than that.

The New York Times - Sports

Germany looked better than that.

The New York Times - Sports

We are better than that.

The New York Times - Books

"There's nothing better than that.

The New York Times - Sports

It is better than that.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better than that" in writing, ensure the context is clear, so the reader understands what 'that' refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "better than that" without a clear reference point. Ensure your audience knows exactly what 'that' represents to prevent confusion or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better than that" functions as a comparative expression, indicating that something or someone is of a higher standard or quality than a previously mentioned or implied benchmark. As supported by Ludwig AI, it serves to make comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "better than that" is a versatile comparative expression that implies a higher standard or quality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, primarily in News & Media. While generally appropriate, it might be too informal for some academic or professional settings. It's essential to ensure clarity in context to avoid ambiguity. Remember to encourage improvement and express disappointment, there are effective alternatives like "superior to that" to use for situations that demand it. With careful attention to context and register, "better than that" can be used effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superior to that

This alternative uses a more formal adjective to indicate a higher quality or standard.

exceeds that

This alternative emphasizes surpassing a certain level or expectation.

surpasses that

Similar to 'exceeds that', this option highlights going beyond a specific point.

a cut above that

This idiomatic expression indicates a noticeable difference in quality, with something being significantly better.

outshines that

This alternative implies that something is more impressive or radiant in comparison.

more advanced than that

This alternative suggests a higher level of development or sophistication.

is preferable to that

This indicates that something is a more desirable option than what is being compared to.

trumps that

This option suggests that something has greater importance or power.

tops that

This means something is superior or has exceeded a certain achievement. Colloquial.

palatable in comparison

This suggests a more acceptable alternative to something.

FAQs

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

You can use "better than that" to express that something or someone is capable of higher quality or performance. For example, "This performance isn't your best; you're "better than that"".

What are some alternative ways to express "better than that"?

You can use alternatives such as "superior to that", "exceeds that", or "a cut above that" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "better than that" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "better than that" is more suited for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "surpasses that" or "is preferable to that".

What does it mean when someone says "You're better than that"?

It usually means they believe you are capable of higher quality work, better behavior, or making wiser choices. It's often used as encouragement or a mild reprimand.