it's preferable

USAGE SUMMARY

'it's preferable' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express that one thing is better or more desirable than the other. For example: "It's preferable to arrive early so that you can get the best seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's preferable to Thomas Fulton's starrily cast 1986 EMI recording, which seems altogether too refined in comparison.

The Guardian - Music

While it's preferable to have the meeting in a lawyer's office, the IRS is entitled by law to walk through a taxpayer's business premises.

Forbes

"Many feel it's preferable to Plan A".

The New York Times

It's not an ethical obligation, but it's preferable to inaction.

The New York Times - Magazine

Sure, it's preferable for all kinds of reasons.

The New York Times

Then again, perhaps it's preferable that the mayor stay away.

The New York Times

On balance, it's preferable to have a poem that has undergone some readerly scrutiny than not.

The New Yorker

"It's preferable just in the sense that it gets me more attention," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Still, it's preferable to do it in the ocean, not by dodging raindrops.

The New York Times

While it's preferable to be able to consult directly with an author, it's not always possible.

The Guardian - Books

It sounds nice, and certainly it's preferable to a policy of closing borders to highly-skilled workers.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it's preferable" when comparing two or more options and clearly stating which one is more suitable or advantageous in a given context.

Common error

Avoid using "it's preferable" without clearly stating what the alternative is. Ensure that the context makes it clear what is being preferred over what.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's preferable" functions as an evaluative expression, indicating that one option or course of action is considered more suitable or desirable than another. Ludwig shows numerous examples of its use in making recommendations or expressing preferences across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Wiki

33%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it's preferable" is a commonly used phrase for expressing that one option is better or more suitable than another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, including news, wiki articles and scientific documents. When using this phrase, ensure a clear comparison is made. Consider alternatives like "it is better" or "it is advisable" to fine-tune your message. Be aware that while versatile, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both informal and professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is better

Emphasizes a clearer distinction in quality or suitability.

it is advantageous

Focuses on the benefits or gains provided by a choice.

it is more desirable

Highlights the attractiveness and appeal of an option.

it is advisable

Suggests a recommended course of action based on wisdom or prudence.

it is recommended

Implies an endorsement or suggestion, often from an authority.

it would be wise

Adds a tone of prudence or caution to the suggestion.

the better option is

Explicitly frames the statement as a choice between alternatives.

it's a better idea

More informal and conversational, suggesting a more practical choice.

it is more suitable

Focuses on how well something fits a particular purpose or situation.

it's a smarter move

Suggests a strategic or intelligent decision.

FAQs

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

You can use "it's preferable" to express that one option is better or more desirable than another. For example, "It's preferable to arrive early for the meeting".

What are some alternatives to saying "it's preferable"?

Alternatives include "it is better", "it is advisable", or "it is more desirable" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it's preferable" or should I use "it is preferable"?

Both "it's preferable" and "it is preferable" are grammatically correct. "It's preferable" is a contraction and is more commonly used in informal contexts.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "it's preferable"?

"It's preferable" is suitable in situations where you want to suggest the best option among multiple choices, implying a degree of subjective judgment or contextual suitability.