it is preferable to have

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is preferable to have" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a recommendation or suggesting a more favorable option in a given situation. Example: "In this case, it is preferable to have a backup plan in place to avoid any potential issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

It is preferable to have an individual check for each individual contribution".

The New York Times

We persisted with it because we believe that it is preferable to have a united EU approach.

The Guardian

There is a consensus view, shared by the three main parties that have governed in the past, that it is preferable to have the populists on board, rather than allow them to gain ground in opposition.

The Guardian

A few repeated Mr. Corzine's argument that it is preferable to have an elected official free from the favoritism that can come from accepting campaign contributions from corporations and special-interest groups.

The New York Times

But over time, Professor Bhagwati predicts, visa restrictions may actually loosen as countries decide it is preferable to have foreigners come in to work rather than see jobs migrate abroad.

The New York Times

Despite strong criticism from officials in the United States and Europe, Mr. D'Alema told reporters in Rome, "I am not the slightest bit repentant for having saved" the reporter, Daniele Mastrogiacomo, adding that it "is preferable to have a controversy over having saved him, rather than for having had him killed".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

But it is preferable to having a following car stuck in another's wheeltracks because the moment it gets close to the turbulent wake of the car ahead it kills the following car's aerodynamics, making it understeer helplessly.

Independent

If they think about it, fans put up with shirt advertising because it is preferable to having games repeatedly interrupted so television can show advertisements.

Forbes

Even so, Mr. Eastland said that it was preferable to have a lawyer.

The New York Times

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

The New Yorker

The second was that the internet meant that any banned visual material was rapidly distributed without control and so it was preferable to have a controlled official release.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is preferable to have" when you want to gently suggest an option that leads to a better outcome or avoids potential problems. It's suitable for offering advice or stating a preference without being overly assertive.

Common error

Avoid using "it is preferable to have" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with alternatives like "it is better to have" or "it is advisable to have" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is preferable to have" functions as an introductory clause that sets the stage for a recommendation or suggestion. Ludwig examples show it introducing a statement about a better course of action or a more advantageous option in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is preferable to have" is a versatile phrase used to suggest a more advantageous option. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and formal business settings. When writing, it is useful to avoid redundancy by varying your language with alternatives such as "it is better to have" or "it is advisable to have".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is better to have

This alternative is more direct and less formal.

it is advisable to have

This suggests a recommendation based on wisdom or prudence.

it is recommended to have

This implies an official or expert endorsement.

it is advantageous to have

This highlights the benefits or gains of having something.

it is beneficial to have

This emphasizes the helpful or positive effects.

it is wise to have

This frames the choice as a smart or sensible decision.

it is helpful to have

This focuses on the utility or assistance provided.

it is useful to have

This underscores the practicality and functionality.

it is desirable to have

This indicates something is wanted or wished for.

it is favorable to have

This suggests a positive or approving attitude towards having something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is preferable to have" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "it is advisable to have" or "it is recommended to have". These options add a layer of authority and professional distance.

Is "it is preferable to have" the same as "it is better to have"?

While similar, "it is preferable to have" suggests a chosen option based on specific advantages, whereas "it is better to have" simply indicates a superior alternative without necessarily detailing why.

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

Use "it is preferable to have" when offering a suggestion or recommendation where a specific choice leads to a more favorable outcome. It's suitable for both formal and semi-formal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "it is preferable to have" for casual conversation?

In casual contexts, you can use phrases like "it is best to have" or "it is helpful to have" for a less formal tone. These options are more approachable and conversational.