it's better that

USAGE SUMMARY

"it's better that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to express a preference or recommendation for a certain course of action or state of being. Here are some examples: 1) It's better that we leave early to beat the traffic. 2) It's better that you ask for permission first before using someone's things. 3) It's better that we wait until after the holidays to make any big decisions. 4) It's better that he stays home to rest instead of going to work with a cold. 5) It's better that we address this issue now rather than letting it escalate.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Let's just say it's better that way," Ms. Fussell said later.

The New York Times

"In this moment I think it's better that we wait for Mario's situation.

Independent

Maybe it's better that way.

The New Yorker

Sometimes, it's better that way.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's better that we're separated," she said.

The New York Times

Maybe it's better that I don't.

The New York Times

Or maybe it's better that you don't.

The New York Times

And it's better that he is.

The New Yorker

But perhaps it's better that he doesn't.

The New York Times - Books

Perhaps it's better that way for now.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's better that way for a while," he said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it's better that" to express a preference or suggestion, especially when comparing two possible outcomes or actions. It clearly communicates which option is more favorable in a given context.

Common error

Avoid confusing "it's better that" with "it's better than". The former introduces a clause indicating a preferred situation, while the latter makes a direct comparison between two nouns or noun phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's better that" functions as a comparative expression, introducing a subordinate clause that describes a preferred or more desirable situation. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it's better that" is a versatile phrase used to express preference or suggest a more favorable scenario. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While highly common in news and media, as well as in formal business settings, it is less frequently found in highly formal academic or scientific discourse. Understanding the subtle difference between "it's better that" and similar phrases like "it's better than" is crucial for precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's preferable that

Replaces "better" with "preferable", maintaining a similar level of formality.

it would be preferable if

Changes the phrasing to a more formal conditional structure, emphasizing preference.

it's more desirable that

Emphasizes the desirability of a particular outcome.

it's advantageous that

Substitutes "better" with "advantageous", highlighting the beneficial aspect.

it's fortunate that

Highlights the element of luck or good fortune associated with the situation.

it's a good thing that

Simplifies the expression to a more conversational tone.

it's more sensible that

Highlights the reasonableness and practicality of a choice.

it's an improvement that

Focuses on the aspect of betterment or positive change.

it's just as well that

Suggests that a particular outcome is acceptable, even if not ideal.

it's wiser to

Shifts the focus to the wisdom or prudence of a particular course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "it's better that" in a sentence?

Use "it's better that" to introduce a clause that describes a preferred situation or outcome. For example, "It's better that we leave early to avoid traffic."

What are some alternatives to saying "it's better that"?

You can use phrases like "it's preferable that", "it would be better if", or "it's advisable that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "it's better that" and "it's better if"?

While both phrases express preference, "it's better that" is typically used to describe a general preference or a state of affairs, whereas "it's better if" often introduces a conditional clause. For example: "It's better that he stays home (general preference)." "It's better if you ask first (conditional)."

When should I use "it's better that" instead of "it's better than"?

"It's better that" is used to introduce a clause expressing a preferred situation, while "it's better than" is used to compare two nouns or noun phrases directly. Example: "It's better that we wait" (preferred situation). "This option is better than that one" (direct comparison).