better with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something improves or is more effective when combined with something else. Example: "This dish is definitely better with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Better with mates.

Independent

We are better with him".

Independent

Probably better with ketchup.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Better with weapons.

The New Yorker

Would Leigh get better with ECMO?

The New Yorker

"Everyone gets better with practice," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some stories get better with age.

The New York Times - Arts

Few are better with a fastball, either.

The New York Times - Sports

But some dishes are better with alternatives.

The New York Times - Food

You'll do much better with vinegar".

The New York Times - Travel

Korea must do better with software.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better with", ensure that the comparison is clear. Specify what is being improved and what it is being improved by. For example, instead of saying "It's better with", specify "This coffee is better with milk".

Common error

Avoid using "better with" without clearly stating the object being improved and the improving agent. For example, saying "Everything is better with" leaves the comparison vague and lacks context. Be specific to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better with" functions as a comparative adjective phrase followed by a preposition. It indicates that something is improved or more desirable when accompanied by something else. As shown in Ludwig, it's a common way to express preference or enhancement through association.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "better with" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to indicate that something is enhanced or improved by the addition of something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used and accepted in various contexts, ranging from news and media to informal conversations. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify what is being improved and what it is being improved by. Common alternatives include "improved by" and "enhanced with". Ludwig’s examples further illustrate the phrase's broad applicability and consistent usage across diverse sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

improved by

Indicates a direct enhancement or upgrade by something.

enhanced with

Suggests a more significant augmentation or enrichment.

superior when combined with

Highlights the advantage of combining two elements.

more effective alongside

Emphasizes the practicality and efficiency of the combination.

works well in conjunction with

Focuses on the harmonious operation of multiple components.

pairs nicely with

Commonly used in food and beverage contexts to indicate complementary flavors.

complements beautifully with

Stresses the aesthetic or functional compatibility of the elements.

optimal in tandem with

Emphasizes that the items are working at their best together.

excel with

Suggests the item performs exceptionally well when mixed.

shines with

Implies a notable improvement when in combination with something else.

FAQs

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

Use "better with" to indicate that something is improved or enhanced by the addition of something else. For instance, "This cake is "better with" chocolate frosting" or "The team performs "better with" a supportive coach".

What are some alternatives to "better with"?

Some alternatives include "improved by", "enhanced with", or "superior when combined with", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "better with"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Better" is a comparative adjective, and "with" is a preposition indicating accompaniment or addition. The phrase is commonly used to express that something is improved or more enjoyable when combined with something else.

What's the difference between ""better with"" and "better without"?

"Better with" indicates that something is improved by the presence of something else, while "better without" means that something is improved by the absence of something else. The choice depends on whether the addition or subtraction of something enhances the subject.