is preferable to error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is preferable to error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of making choices that avoid mistakes or inaccuracies. Example: "In decision-making, clarity is preferable to error, as it leads to better outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Signal failure at Bethnal Green: "Delay is preferable to error" (Jefferson).

The Guardian

Said Jefferson: "Delay is preferable to error".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It also shows that the accurate chemical analysis of the molality of the test solution is important, and it is preferable to keep the error of the measured osmotic coefficients changeless in all isopiestic experiments including those experiments on the very dilute solutions.

The Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics

Although it is preferable to minimize the prediction error instead of predicting the error, the problem of minimization of the prediction error is as difficult as numerical weather prediction.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

All else being equal, an ETF with minimal tracking error is preferable to one with a greater degree of error.

Forbes

In general, the 30% threshold is preferable to 20% when nucleotide-read error is high and the 20% threshold preferable to the 30% when nucleotide-read error is low.

Bioinformatics

However, because of the large number of markers available after imputation, it is preferable to discard markers with high error rates.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

Furthermore, the normal BRMA is preferable to two normal URMAs; the mean-square error and standard error of pooled estimates is generally smaller in the BRMA, especially given data missing at random.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

* Filing for an extension is preferable to submitting a return with errors.

The New York Times

As a whole it can be said that p ≤ 1 is preferable to reduce the measurement noise and the error between the true and reconstructed μ a values.

Biomedical Optics Express

The backward method is preferable to the forward method because it reduces type 2 error (e.g., missing predictor that does in fact predict the outcome) (Field 2005).

Environmental Health Perspectives

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In risk assessment or decision-making processes, use "is preferable to error" to highlight the priority of avoiding mistakes that could lead to negative outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "is preferable to error" when discussing subjective preferences. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing objective accuracy and avoiding measurable mistakes, not personal taste or opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is preferable to error" functions as a comparative expression, indicating that avoiding mistakes or inaccuracies is more desirable than making them. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in diverse contexts, reinforcing its role in prioritizing accuracy.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is preferable to error" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that underscores the importance of accuracy across various domains. As confirmed by Ludwig, it frequently appears in News & Media and Science, highlighting its relevance in conveying a need for precision and minimizing mistakes. While there might be situations where other considerations such as speed or cost-effectiveness take precedence, avoiding errors remains a key priority in contexts where accuracy is paramount. It’s a reminder to prioritize diligence and careful attention to detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preferable to making mistakes

Highlights the action of making mistakes, adding a dynamic aspect to the comparison.

avoiding errors is key

Focuses on avoiding errors as the essential element, using a simpler and more direct expression.

better to avoid mistakes

Emphasizes the proactive avoidance of errors, simplifying the comparison.

choosing accuracy is better

Highlights the act of choosing accuracy, emphasizing intentionality.

more desirable than inaccuracy

Focuses on inaccuracy as the undesirable element, using a more formal tone.

it is better to be accurate

Shifts the focus to the positive quality of accuracy, rather than avoiding error.

precision is favored over mistakes

Emphasizes the specific quality of precision and its advantage over making errors.

accuracy is paramount

Emphasizes the importance of accuracy above all else, conveying a stronger sense of priority.

correctness takes precedence

Prioritizes correctness over other considerations, indicating a formal and decisive stance.

it's wiser to be precise

Replaces "preferable" with "wiser," suggesting a cautious and thoughtful approach.

FAQs

How can I use "is preferable to error" in a sentence?

You can use "is preferable to error" to highlight the importance of accuracy and avoiding mistakes in various contexts. For example: "In data analysis, accuracy "is preferable to error" because incorrect data can lead to flawed conclusions."

What phrases are similar to "is preferable to error"?

Similar phrases include "better to avoid mistakes", "more desirable than inaccuracy", and "preferable to making mistakes".

When is it appropriate to use "is preferable to error"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the need for accuracy and the avoidance of mistakes, particularly in situations where errors can have significant consequences, such as in scientific research, financial reporting, or legal documentation.

Are there situations where something other than avoiding errors might be preferable?

Yes, sometimes speed or cost-effectiveness might be prioritized over absolute accuracy, depending on the context. However, in situations where precision and correctness are paramount, avoiding errors "is preferable to error".