fractionally superior

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fractionally superior" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is slightly better or of a higher quality compared to something else. Example: "In terms of performance, the new model is fractionally superior to its predecessor, offering improved efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

These teams were nigh on inseparable in the Championship proper, both finishing on 76 points, with Cardiff fractionally ahead in fourth place by virtue of the superior goal difference garnered by their prolific strike force.

The Guardian - Sport

Platt was fractionally onside and Gascoigne fractionally off.

The Guardian - Sport

And they pedal fractionally faster.

The Guardian - Opinion

A fractionally lower price gets the business.

Harvard Business Review

As a result unemployment rose only fractionally.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nor do the fractionally bigger names disappoint.

The Guardian - Music

Racially superior.

The New Yorker

The midfielder's drive went fractionally high.

The Guardian - Sport

The intensity slips fractionally at the end.

The Guardian - Music

Superior cities?

Independent

The Cadillac is actually fractionally shorter than the sedan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fractionally superior" when you want to indicate a small, but noticeable, advantage or improvement over something else. It suggests a subtle difference in quality or performance.

Common error

Avoid using "fractionally superior" when the difference is significant or substantial. This phrase is best suited for minor distinctions, and using it for major improvements can be misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fractionally superior" functions as an adjectival phrase. It is used to modify a noun, indicating that something possesses a slightly higher degree of quality or advantage compared to something else. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is usable in written English, albeit with the caveat of potentially needing context for precise evaluation.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fractionally superior" is a grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to indicate a slight advantage or improvement. While Ludwig confirms its usability, the lack of specific examples indicates that its usage may be relatively uncommon. It's best employed when highlighting subtle differences, as confirmed by the semantic alternatives like ""slightly better"" or ""marginally superior"". The phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various professional and informative contexts. Due to its nature, it’s important to avoid overstating the difference when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly better

Indicates a marginal improvement or higher quality.

marginally superior

Highlights a small degree of superiority.

somewhat superior

Suggests a moderate level of superiority.

a bit better

Informal way of expressing a slight improvement.

a shade better

Emphasizes a subtle difference in quality.

incrementally superior

Focuses on the small, incremental nature of the superiority.

minimally superior

Stresses the very small extent of the superiority.

slightly advantageous

Highlights a small advantage.

a cut above

Idiomatic expression for being slightly better.

a notch above

Implies a small step up in quality or performance.

FAQs

How can I use "fractionally superior" in a sentence?

You can use "fractionally superior" to describe something that is slightly better than something else. For example, "In terms of fuel efficiency, this model is "fractionally superior" to the previous one".

What's a good alternative to "fractionally superior"?

Alternatives to "fractionally superior" include "slightly better", "marginally superior", or "a bit better". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "fractionally superior"?

No, "fractionally superior" should only be used when the difference is genuinely small. If the improvement is substantial, a stronger term like significantly better or considerably superior would be more appropriate.

What does "fractionally superior" imply about the comparison?

Using "fractionally superior" implies that the difference being discussed is subtle and may not be immediately obvious. It's suitable when highlighting a minor advantage or improvement.