better to avoid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better to avoid" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when trying to suggest an option or solution that may reduce risk or unwanted outcomes. For example: "It's better to avoid making assumptions about other people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Better to avoid exposing his ignorance even further.

The New Yorker

"It's better to avoid problems and stay home," he said.

The New York Times

But it might perhaps have been better to avoid those extremes in the first place.

The Guardian - Opinion

We solicited another friend's advice on Pierre, and the feedback was not good: "Better to avoid".

The New Yorker

Finding Common Ground It would obviously be better to avoid abortions entirely by eliminating unwanted pregnancies.

The New York Times

Naturally, they tried to learn the habits of the snake population, better to avoid the shocks.

The Guardian - Opinion

If not, better to avoid persistent complaints and turn the matter over to Sergeant Friday.

The New York Times

Of course, it's better to avoid the need in the first place.

The New York Times - Sports

A nice touch was offering black napkins in place of white, the better to avoid lint.

The New York Times - Travel

Better to avoid taking them on directly, especially if they are strangers to you.

The New York Times

Also, better to avoid presents that make other people's parties all about us.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better to avoid", ensure that the context clearly indicates what negative outcome you are trying to prevent. For example, instead of just saying "Better to avoid", specify, "Better to avoid making assumptions without sufficient evidence."

Common error

Avoid using "better to avoid" as a standalone statement without explaining what should be avoided and why. This can leave the reader confused about the intended meaning and the potential consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better to avoid" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing a recommendation or suggestion to avert a specific action or situation. Ludwig AI indicates its common use. It serves to propose a course of action that is considered more advantageous than the alternative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

25%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "better to avoid" serves as a versatile and grammatically sound recommendation to steer clear of potential issues. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific and informal communications. To maximize clarity and effectiveness, ensure that you provide specific details about what should be avoided and the reasons why. By following this guidance, you can leverage the phrase to offer informed advice and prevent negative outcomes in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preferable to prevent

Emphasizes the desirability of preventing something from happening rather than simply avoiding it.

advisable to steer clear of

Highlights the wisdom of staying away from a potentially problematic situation.

wiser to refrain from

Focuses on the prudence of abstaining from a particular action or behavior.

safer to bypass

Suggests that bypassing something is the secure option, implying potential danger.

recommended to shun

Indicates an official or expert suggestion to reject or stay away from something.

prudent to evade

Highlights the cautious approach to elude or escape something.

advantageous to circumvent

Focuses on gaining an advantage by finding a way around a problem or obstacle.

smart to dodge

Implies quick thinking and agility to evade something.

strategic to avert

Suggests careful planning to prevent something negative from occurring.

favorable to preclude

Emphasizes the positive outcome of preventing something from happening.

FAQs

How can I use "better to avoid" in a sentence?

You can use "better to avoid" to suggest steering clear of something to prevent a negative outcome. For instance, "It's "better to avoid" making assumptions in this situation."

What are some alternatives to "better to avoid"?

Alternatives include phrases like "preferable to prevent", "advisable to steer clear of", or "wiser to refrain from" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "better to avoid"?

Yes, "better to avoid" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in English. It's used to express a recommendation to stay away from something.

In what contexts is "better to avoid" most appropriate?

"Better to avoid" is appropriate in contexts where you want to advise someone to prevent a potentially negative situation or outcome. It's commonly used in professional, news, and even informal settings.