it is preferable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is preferable" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to express that something is a better choice or more desirable than something else. For example, "It is preferable to take a taxi home rather than walking in the dark."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The results suggest that it is preferable to use cyclophosphamide on its own.

British Journal of Cancer

In fact, it is preferable that you aren't.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is preferable for the low-temperature geothermal ORC system.

Applied Energy

Although it is preferable, we do not require that the experience be in psychiatry.

Yale University

It is preferable to ask for letters of recommendation in person.

Columbia University

Internships may be paid or unpaid, although it is preferable if students can be compensated.

Columbia University

Nevertheless, it is preferable to induce them to use the fish passes.

Britannica

I am disenchanted with the PAC-financed Democratit Party, but is is preferable to the alternative.

The New York Times

"It is preferable to have consistency across profiles, reducing potential confusion to users.

The Guardian

Here, too, it is preferable to use a trust, rather than dealing with family members directly.

The New York Times

It is preferable that they be clean, efficient, gas-fired plants that emit few pollutants.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is preferable" to clearly indicate a recommended course of action or choice, especially when comparing options. Ensure the context makes the reason for the preference clear.

Common error

Avoid using "it is preferable" too frequently without providing a clear rationale. Always explain why one option is preferable to another to avoid sounding vague or arbitrary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is preferable" functions as an evaluative expression, indicating a subjective assessment of a situation where one option is considered more desirable or advantageous than another. Ludwig AI highlights its use across various contexts, reinforcing its role in expressing preference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

28%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is preferable" serves as a clear and effective way to express a recommended course of action or choice. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English and its prevalence across various contexts including science, news media, and academia. When using this phrase, ensure you provide a clear rationale for why one option is preferred over another to enhance clarity and persuasiveness. Alternatives such as "it is advisable" or "it is better" can be used depending on the desired tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is advisable

Emphasizes the recommended nature of the action, suggesting prudence and good judgment.

it is recommended

Highlights that the action is officially suggested, often by an authority or expert.

it is better

Offers a simpler comparison, indicating a superior choice without necessarily implying strong endorsement.

it would be best

Suggests a more favorable outcome if the action is taken, with a slightly softer tone.

the preferred option is

Focuses on the selection of one choice over others, often in a decision-making context.

it is more suitable

Indicates that the action is better aligned with specific requirements or conditions.

it is advantageous

Stresses the benefits and positive consequences of choosing the action.

it is wiser

Highlights the element of prudence and foresight in making the choice.

it is more appropriate

Indicates the action is better fitting or aligned with norms and expectations.

it is encouraged

Suggests support and motivation to choose the action, although not mandatory.

FAQs

How can I use "it is preferable" in a sentence?

Use "it is preferable" to suggest that one option is better or more suitable than another. For instance, "It is preferable to arrive early for the meeting to ensure you are prepared."

What are some alternatives to "it is preferable"?

You can use alternatives like "it is advisable", "it is better", or "it is recommended" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "it is preferable" in writing?

Use "it is preferable" when you want to gently suggest a recommended action or choice based on specific reasons or benefits. It's suitable for situations where there isn't a strict requirement but a suggested best practice.

What is the difference between "it is preferable" and "it is necessary"?

"It is preferable" indicates a recommended or favored option, while "it is necessary" implies a requirement or obligation. The former suggests a better choice, while the latter indicates something essential.