it's preferred

USAGE SUMMARY

"it's preferred" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to express a preference or choice between different options or actions. Example: "When attending a formal event, it's preferred to wear a suit or dress instead of casual attire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Only one, Argo AI, mentioned an associate's or bachelor's degree "in any field of study," but said it's preferred, not required.

Huffington Post

It's preferred to rook for roasting (rocker with 't for r).

The Guardian

"It's a more labor-intensive way to handle incontinence, but it's preferred for residents' dignity and quality of life," Dr. Gruneir told me.

The New York Times

"It's preferred because, I think to be fair, in Canada there may be more distance to travel to a radiation facility.

The New York Times - Health

Play Minecraft and rather than compete for the World Cup or plot to kill a Borgia, it's preferred you act like a groundsman, or a Roman town planner, willing to put in hard hours with blueprints and shovel.

The Guardian - Tech

It's preferred over urine samples because hair can reveal drug use further in the past.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Two parts of Gauss Jordan Elimination are not like Gaussian Elimination's part so it is preferred.

Procedia Technology

Please tell me it is preferred to Guy Ritchie's kung-fu version.

Vice

It is preferred to use Johnson and Johnson's baby shampoo; avoid using scented products.

WikiHow

Granite being more durable than marble, it was preferred, but more expensive.

The New York Times

It is preferred by some because of speedy drying and matte effects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it's preferred", ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the preferring. Is it a general consensus, or a specific individual or group?

Common error

Avoid presenting something that is "preferred" as mandatory. "It's preferred" implies a choice, not a rule. If something is required, use stronger language such as "it is required" or "it is essential".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's preferred" functions as an adjective phrase expressing a recommendation or suggestion, often indicating a choice considered more suitable or desirable. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it's preferred" is a versatile phrase used to suggest a favorable option or course of action, without imposing a strict requirement. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse contexts, though clarity is enhanced by specifying who holds the preference. While it's often used in news, media, wiki and scientific writing, it's crucial to avoid overstating the preference as a mandate. The related phrases offer alternative ways to convey recommendations or suggestions, each with slightly different nuances in tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is better

Implies a higher degree of objective advantage, while "it's preferred" suggests subjective choice.

it is advisable

Focuses on recommending a course of action, while "it's preferred" simply expresses a preference.

it is recommended

Highlights what is officially suggested, instead of personal preference of "it's preferred".

it is suggested

Similar to "it is recommended" but weaker in tone, while "it's preferred" denotes a direct preference.

it is more suitable

Emphasizes appropriateness, but lacks the element of choice conveyed by "it's preferred".

the better option is

Clearly indicates one superior choice, while "it's preferred" can be a milder suggestion.

the recommended approach is

Highlights an official guideline versus a personal preference expressed by "it's preferred".

the favored method is

Implies a popular choice over a strict preference as shown by "it's preferred".

the ideal way is

Highlights that something is perfect, whereas "it's preferred" does not point out something perfect but just more convenient.

it's advantageous

Focuses solely on benefits or advantages but misses the nuance of choice and subjectivity in "it's preferred".

FAQs

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

Use "it's preferred" to indicate a suggested action or choice. For example, "For best results, "it's preferred to use" fresh ingredients."

What's the difference between "it's preferred" and "it's required"?

"It's preferred" suggests a recommended option, whereas "it's required" indicates a necessary condition. Something that "it's required" is not optional.

What can I say instead of "it's preferred"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "it is better", "it is advisable", or "it is recommended".

Is it always necessary to specify who prefers something when using "it's preferred"?

While not always necessary, clarifying who holds the preference can enhance clarity. For instance, instead of "it's preferred", consider "it's preferred by most health professionals" or "it's preferred to be done outside" to provide more context.