it is preferred that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is preferred that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to express the idea that something is more desirable than another option. For example, "It is preferred that employees arrive at least 15 minutes early for their shifts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The first three in England's order all did what it is preferred that all batsmen, though especially limited-overs batsmen, should not do – get out when set.

Independent

Typically, it is preferred that the fracture height be equal to the formation height, where fully penetrating fractures can be produced.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

If the mixture number of the GMM increases, then it is preferred that the performance of the VAD will be better.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

While the jet sizes vary and may be large for microfluidic applications, it is preferred that they should be in the meso scale range for removing heat from electronics components.

Applied Thermal Engineering

For ADC maps, if only two b values can be acquired, it is preferred that the lowest b value should be set at 50 100 s/mm2 and the highest should be 800 1000 s/mm2.

Insights into Imaging

However, for target delineation purposes, it is preferred that the bladder has the same size and shape as on scans acquired for radiotherapy planning i.e. 'comfortably full' for the registration algorithm to work well.

EJNMMI Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Even then, she noted, one superior told her it was preferred that she not identify herself as a V.A. nurse in any future letter writing.

The New York Times

Between the longer status with Hungary and religious differences with the Ottomans (Hungary and Serbia were Christian, as compared to the Muslim Turks), it was preferred that the capital be closer to Hungary than the Ottoman Empire.

Wikipedia

It was preferred that fellows move to attachment sites outside their working station, although fellows could also take on new "fellow roles" within their working stations.

Human Resources for Health

For sufficiently effective treatments, it was preferred that hypothetical patients have a more equal chance of receiving treatment with less regard to their potential benefit from treatment [ 19].

BMC Medical Ethics

It was preferred that patients completed the measures in the clinic; however if patients insisted, they were allowed to complete questionnaires at home, in which case patients were asked to return the questionnaires within a week by regular mail.

BMC Psychiatry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is preferred that", ensure the context clearly indicates why the preferred option is better or more suitable. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the recommendation.

Common error

Avoid using "it is preferred that" in very informal conversations or casual writing. Simpler alternatives like "I'd rather" or "it's better to" can sound more natural and less stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is preferred that" functions as a clause introducer expressing a recommendation or preference. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound. Examples show its use in conveying optimal conditions or actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

56%

Wiki

18%

News & Media

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is preferred that" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a recommendation or preference. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is common across various contexts, particularly in science, news media, and wiki sources, often carrying a formal tone. While versatile, be mindful of its formality and consider simpler alternatives in casual settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the reasoning behind the preference to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is recommended that

A common synonym that directly suggests a course of action.

it is advisable that

Similar in meaning but suggests a more formal recommendation.

it is suggested that

Implies a more subtle recommendation or hint.

it is desirable that

Emphasizes the advantageous nature of a particular outcome.

it would be best if

Suggests the most optimal or favorable condition.

it is better that

Focuses on the comparative improvement of one option over another.

preferably

An adverbial form indicating a favored choice.

ideally

A more concise way to express a preferred situation.

one should

Offers a general recommendation or guideline.

the best course of action is

Highlights the most suitable approach or strategy.

FAQs

How can I use "it is preferred that" in a sentence?

Use "it is preferred that" to express a recommendation or to indicate a more desirable option. For example, "It is preferred that all employees attend the training session".

What are some alternatives to "it is preferred that"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is recommended that", "it is advisable that", or "ideally" depending on the context.

Is "it is preferred that" formal or informal?

"It is preferred that" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

When should I use "it is preferred that" over "it is recommended that"?

Both phrases are quite similar. "It is recommended that" often carries a stronger sense of endorsement or official suggestion, whereas "it is preferred that" might imply a more subjective or situational preference.