in order of preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in order of preference" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a sequence or list that is ordered according to the preference of the speaker or writer. For example, "We ranked our favorite candy bars in order of preference, with Kit Kat coming out on top."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In Wales, parents give their preferred schools in order of preference.

BBC

Listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

Rank these in order of preference.

The New York Times

Joe Drape listed the horses in order of preference.

The New York Times

These six wines are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Style

The following wines are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

These six bottles are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

Listed in order of preference in each category.

The New York Times - Food

The six wines here are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

Impressions of three hyperconvenience foods follow, in order of preference.

The New York Times

Voters rank the three candidates in order of preference.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in order of preference", ensure the context clearly indicates whose preferences are being considered. If the preference is subjective, state who holds the preference. If it's based on objective criteria, clarify the criteria.

Common error

Avoid using "in order of preference" without specifying whose preference it is. For example, instead of saying 'List the tasks in order of preference', specify 'List the tasks in order of your preference' or '...in order of the client's preference' to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in order of preference" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverbial phrase. It indicates the sequence or arrangement of items based on a specified preference. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in order of preference" is a versatile and commonly used phrase to indicate a ranked sequence based on liking or priority. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and widely found across diverse source types. When using "in order of preference", clarity is key; always ensure that the context specifies whose preferences are being referred to, especially when the preference is subjective. Similar alternatives, like "by order of priority" or "according to preference", offer slight nuances in meaning, focusing more on importance or agreement rather than personal liking. With clear communication and careful consideration of context, "in order of preference" can effectively convey the desired meaning in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

By order of priority

Replaces 'preference' with 'priority', focusing on importance rather than personal liking.

In preferred sequence

Uses 'sequence' to emphasize the order and 'preferred' as an adjective.

According to preference

Changes the structure to an adverbial phrase, focusing on agreement with preferences.

Based on priority

Shortens the phrase while keeping the meaning close, focusing on what the order depends on.

Ranked by choice

Uses 'choice' to specify that the ranking is determined by selection or preference.

Following a prioritized list

Specifies that a list already exists and is followed according to priority.

In terms of desirability

Highlights how desirable the option is.

By favour

Highlights how much you like it.

In preferential arrangement

Highlights how much you like it.

In order of ranking

Specifies that the items are ordered by a previously established ranking.

FAQs

How can I use "in order of preference" in a sentence?

You can use "in order of preference" to describe how items are listed or ranked according to someone's liking or priority. For example, 'The candidates are listed "in order of preference" based on the voters' choices'.

What phrases are similar to "in order of preference"?

Similar phrases include "by order of priority", "according to preference", or "ranked by choice". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it necessary to specify whose preference is being referred to when using "in order of preference"?

It's generally best to specify whose preference you are referring to for clarity. If it's obvious from the context, it might not be necessary, but explicitly stating it avoids ambiguity.

What's the difference between "in order of preference" and "in order of priority"?

"In order of preference" implies a ranking based on liking or desirability, while "in order of priority" suggests a ranking based on importance or urgency. You would use "in order of priority" when something needs to be done first for practical or strategic reasons.