distinct preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinct preference" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means a strong or clear preference for something over another. Example: The company's CEO has a distinct preference for hiring experienced employees rather than recent graduates.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All CAs were active towards CO2 and bicarbonate, however only Caa had a distinct preference for CO2 as a substrate while the other three CAs all preferred bicarbonate.

AMB Express

Like most newborns, Toby seems to have a distinct preference for feeding at night.

The Guardian - Opinion

Different species of forams, as the organisms are known, show a distinct preference for warm- or cold-water zones.

The New York Times - Science

Young Americans are making reading choices that show a distinct preference for a backdrop with a British accent.

The New York Times - Books

A look at the current Nasa manifest shows a distinct preference for missions to the inner solar system, especially to the moon, Mars and asteroids.

The Guardian

"I have a distinct preference for the traditional wines of western Europe and a matching skepticism about most of the wines produced in the New World".

The New York Times

Congress expressed in the Bail Reform Act its distinct preference for pretrial release from jail and prescribed that release on conditions be denied to a person charged with a crime only in exceptional circumstances.

The New York Times

Zé has a distinct preference for the high and chattering sounds of instruments like the cavaquinho — a Brazilian relative of the ukulele — and something that sounds like a very squeaky harpsichord.

The New Yorker

As luck, or insight, would have it, when Honest Tea started landing on store shelves, consumers were showing a distinct preference for bottled water and other beverages perceived to be more healthful.

The New York Times

But products of undoubted biological origin, including the oldest sediments, show a distinct preference for odd numbers of carbon atoms per molecule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Dewhurst also had the disadvantage of looking like a traditional Republican at a time when the party had a distinct preference for Tea.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "distinct preference", ensure the context clearly indicates the object or option being favored. For instance, "The data shows a "distinct preference" for renewable energy sources over fossil fuels."

Common error

Avoid using "distinct preference" when the preference is only slight or marginal. If the difference is minimal, consider using phrases like "slight preference" or "marginal advantage" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinct preference" functions as a noun phrase, where "distinct" modifies the noun "preference". It is generally used to describe a clear and noticeable favor or liking towards a specific option, item, or choice. This is supported by Ludwig, as evidenced in examples illustrating various preferences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distinct preference" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that indicates a clear and strong liking for something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is frequently found in scientific and news articles, as well as encyclopedias, and has a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When using the phrase, be sure to accurately represent the intensity of the preference and consider using alternatives like "marked inclination" or "clear predilection" to add nuance. Finally, remember to ensure clarity in the context of the sentence to make sure what is being favored is understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

marked inclination

Replaces "preference" with "inclination" and "distinct" with "marked", highlighting a noticeable tendency.

clear predilection

Substitutes "preference" with "predilection", emphasizing a pre-existing liking or bias.

noticeable bias

Replaces "preference" with "bias", suggesting a leaning in one direction, possibly unfair.

strong liking

Uses simpler terms to convey a powerful positive feeling towards something.

evident favoritism

Emphasizes showing special treatment or partiality towards one thing over others.

pronounced partiality

Highlights a clear and obvious leaning towards a specific option.

definite leaning

Suggests a clear inclination or tendency, although potentially less forceful than "preference".

obvious inclination

Highlights how the tendency or inclination is easily perceived.

decided advantage

Implies that one option is more advantageous and this is the basis for the preference.

special appreciation

Implies not only liking, but also having high regard and gratitude for it.

FAQs

How can I use "distinct preference" in a sentence?

You can use "distinct preference" to describe a clear and strong liking for something over another. For example: "The study revealed a "distinct preference" for organic produce among health-conscious consumers."

What are some alternatives to using "distinct preference"?

You can use alternatives like "marked inclination", "clear predilection", or "noticeable bias" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "distinct preference" or "strong preference"?

Both "distinct preference" and "strong preference" are grammatically correct. "Distinct preference" emphasizes clarity and obviousness, while "strong preference" emphasizes the intensity of the liking. The better choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between a "distinct preference" and a "slight preference"?

A "distinct preference" indicates a clear and noticeable favoritism towards one option, whereas a "slight preference" suggests a minor inclination that may not be particularly strong or obvious. It is important to pick the version that best describe what you aim to convey.