in preference to another

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in preference to another" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when expressing a choice or favoring one option over another. Example: "She chose tea in preference to another beverage." Alternative expressions include "instead of" and "rather than."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Thumba was chosen as the launch site in preference to another location whose name translated as "White Elephant Island".The programme's founder had little patience for scoffers.

The Economist

In terms of an overall result, there is no chemotaxis toward one source in preference to another.

Communicative and Integrative Biology

Thus, the decision to use one imaging technique for staging cancer in preference to another is frequently based on information provided on diagnostic performance.

Cancer Imaging

Meta analyses of arthritis self-management have concluded that it is difficult to recommend any one program in preference to another due to inconsistencies in the study designs used to evaluate different programs.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

However, one review study investigated why patients with localised PC choose one treatment in preference to another (Zeliadt et al, 2006); the authors found that although patients stated that side effects are important, few patients reported that side effect factors ultimately influenced their treatment choice.

British Journal of Cancer

Luhmann [ 64] argued that trust means choosing one action (consent to surgery) in preference to another (have a second opinion or choose a different doctor), in spite of the possibility of being disappointed by the actions of the trusted person [ 64].

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The managers endorsed an offer from the New York Stock Exchange in preference to the Deutsche Börse, another big European exchange.

The Economist

In other words, we have chosen certain data in preference to others and in another time and in another place we might have had reasons to prefer different data and come to different conclusions.

City, Territory and Architecture

Capoue will provide the manager André Villas-Boas with another option and the midfielder has chosen Tottenham in preference to Cardiff City and Atlético Madrid.

The Guardian - Sport

Emily Dickinson used the dash in preference to any other punctuation.

The New York Times - Books

I have always worn a skirt in preference to trousers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in preference to another" to clearly indicate a deliberate choice or prioritization when comparing two options. This phrase adds a level of formality and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in preference to another" in very simple sentences where "instead of" or "rather than" would suffice. Opt for simpler language when appropriate to maintain clarity and flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in preference to another" functions as a prepositional phrase, indicating a choice or selection of one option over another. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It modifies a verb or noun, clarifying the nature of the preference.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

14%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in preference to another" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to indicate a deliberate choice or prioritization. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. It's most commonly found in science, news, and formal business contexts, signaling a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "instead of" or "rather than" exist, "in preference to another" adds a layer of precision and formality, making it suitable for contexts where a clear and reasoned choice needs to be expressed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather than another

Emphasizes the exclusion of the second option more strongly.

instead of another

A more direct and common way to indicate substitution.

as opposed to another

Highlights a contrast between two options.

in lieu of another

A more formal way of saying "instead of".

in place of another

Focuses on the substitution aspect.

favoring over another

Highlights the act of showing preference.

preferring over another

Similar to "favoring", but with a slightly more active connotation.

opting for instead of another

Emphasizes the active decision-making process.

selecting over another

Focuses on the choice made from multiple options.

choosing instead of another

Similar to "opting for", but more straightforward.

FAQs

How can I use "in preference to another" in a sentence?

Use "in preference to another" to show that something is chosen or liked more than something else. For example, "She chose tea "in preference to another" beverage."

What are some alternatives to "in preference to another"?

Some alternatives to "in preference to another" include "instead of", "rather than", or "as opposed to", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "in preference to another" formal or informal?

"In preference to another" leans towards formal usage. Simpler options like "instead of" or "rather than" are suitable for informal contexts.

When is it best to use "in preference to another"?

Use "in preference to another" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and reasoned choice between two options, especially in formal writing or speech.