is sometimes better

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is sometimes better" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing two or more options, suggesting that one option may be preferable at certain times or under specific circumstances. Example: "In some cases, taking a break is sometimes better than pushing through fatigue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Earlier is sometimes better, sometimes not.

The New York Times

Giggling is sometimes better than answering.

The New Yorker

The theory is sometimes better than the practice, though.

Independent

"Not being in the bubble is sometimes better," he said.

The New York Times

"It is sometimes better to have a bit more time," she said.

The Guardian

"A compromise is sometimes better than taking a case like this the final yard".

The New York Times

She added that it is sometimes better to go with the group than with family.

The New York Times

As plenty of Japanese investors can attest, it is sometimes better to miss out on the big deals.

The Economist

"I will say something which is crazy, but less democracy is sometimes better for organising a World Cup," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

But the identity of the perpetrators and their ultimate goals remain so vague that the grinding violence is sometimes better conveyed in poetry.

The New York Times

Mr Sisk argues that it is sometimes better to intervene in states or even split them up in order to separate irreconcilables.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is sometimes better", ensure that you specify what "better" refers to in the specific context. For instance, clarify if it is better for efficiency, cost, or a different metric.

Common error

Avoid using "is sometimes better" as a blanket statement without providing context or reasoning. This can lead to misinterpretations or a lack of understanding of the nuances involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is sometimes better" primarily functions as a comparative qualifier, expressing that the superiority of one option over another is conditional. Ludwig AI indicates it is used to introduce nuance and context-dependence in decision-making.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is sometimes better" serves as a qualifier, indicating that the preference for one option over another depends on specific circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide adequate context to clarify the conditions under which the statement holds true, thereby avoiding oversimplification and ensuring clarity. Remember that it is an alternative and you should not take it as an absolute rule.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is occasionally a better option

This directly substitutes "is sometimes better" with a synonym, maintaining similar meaning.

might be a better choice

This implies a decision-making scenario where one option is favored.

may be preferable at times

This suggests a preference under specific circumstances, highlighting conditionality.

can occasionally be superior

This alternative uses more formal language and emphasizes occasional superiority.

can be a superior alternative

This suggests one of the choices is better in some cases.

could be more advantageous

This emphasizes the potential benefits of a particular option.

proves superior on occasion

This phrase highlights that the choice is better in a specific context.

is a superior choice in certain instances

This is a more formal way of suggesting one option is better depending on the situation.

is occasionally the greater option

Suggesting a better result for a choice in a specific case.

turns out to be the best option

This suggests that after a consideration, the option is the most suitable.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is sometimes better" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "may be preferable at times" or "can occasionally be superior", which convey a similar meaning with increased sophistication.

What does it mean when something "is sometimes better"?

When something "is sometimes better", it means its advantages are situational. It's not universally superior, but it offers benefits in specific contexts. The opposite of this statement would be "is always better".

Which is correct, "is sometimes better" or "is always better"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but their appropriateness depends on the context. "Is always better" implies universal superiority, while "is sometimes better" acknowledges context-dependent advantages.

What's a situation where 'less democracy' "is sometimes better"?

The idea that 'less democracy' "is sometimes better" is often controversially used in scenarios where efficiency or order is prioritized over participatory decision-making, such as in organizing large-scale events or during crises. However, this viewpoint can be highly contested due to its potential implications for individual rights and freedoms.