it prefers that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it prefers that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a preference for a specific action or outcome in a formal or structured context. Example: "The committee has decided that it prefers that all members submit their reports by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Tesla, which is based in Palo Alto, said it prefers that legislation be enacted to lift the ban on direct sales but was told by legislators in June that no hearing will be held.

Los Angeles Times

The N.F.L. says it prefers that all underclassmen be denied eligibility for the draft.

The New York Times - Sports

The Mets' front office does seem to know the course of action it prefers — that Harvey have the surgery and be healthy for the 2015 season.

The New York Times - Sports

It prefers that investors look at a "pro forma" calculation of earnings that excludes the cost of mergers, stock options and some noncash accounting charges.

The New York Times

He complains that the Brazilian Air Force, traditionally regarded as the most nationalistic and authoritarian branch of the military, favors the mall proposal because it prefers that local people not recall that Americans -- rather than Brazilians -- built the bases and supplied the planes here.

The New York Times

-1 & -2 & -3 & -4 & -5 It prefers that both governments take no action.

Environmental Systems Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The Pentagon said it preferred that The Times not publish any classified materials but did not propose any cuts.

The New York Times

It prefers attributes that are highly correlated within each class, but that have low inter-correlation.

Plosone

It prefers soil that is moist and shaded and has a high content of humus.

Wikipedia

It prefers companies that focus on corporate markets over companies with a consumer focus.

Forbes

It is preferred that it is used for backup or transferring purposes only, not as your only existing copy of that data.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it prefers that", ensure that the subject 'it' is clearly defined and refers to a specific entity (e.g., an organization, committee, or system) to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it prefers that" when the referent of 'it' is vague or ambiguous. Clarify the subject to specify who or what holds the preference. For example, instead of "It prefers that...", specify "The committee prefers that...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it prefers that" functions as a clause introducer, expressing a preference on behalf of a specific entity. It is commonly used in formal writing to indicate a desired course of action or outcome. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it prefers that" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for indicating a preference, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not exceedingly common, it finds its niche in formal and professional settings, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, clarity regarding the referent of 'it' is crucial. Alternatives like "it would rather that" or "it favors that" can offer subtle shifts in emphasis. By following the best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively convey preferences with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would rather that

Emphasizes a stronger degree of preference, indicating a deliberate choice.

it favors that

Suggests a positive inclination, portraying the preferred option more favorably.

it is inclined to believe that

Indicates a leaning towards a belief or opinion, suggesting a cognitive preference.

it tends to favor

Highlights a habitual preference, indicating a pattern of choosing that option.

it is more amenable to

Implies a willingness to accept or agree with something, suggesting a preference based on ease of acceptance.

it is disposed to think that

Suggests a pre-existing inclination or viewpoint, indicating a preference based on prior disposition.

it sees fit to

Indicates a preference based on what is deemed appropriate or suitable.

it has a preference for

States the existence of a preference directly, without emphasizing the degree of inclination.

its preference is for

Similar to 'it has a preference for,' but phrased in a more formal manner.

it finds desirable that

Highlights the attractiveness or appeal of the preferred outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "it prefers that" in a sentence?

Use "it prefers that" to express a preference of an entity for a particular action or outcome. For example, "The company "it prefers that" all employees attend the training session."

What are some alternatives to "it prefers that"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it would rather that", "it favors that", or "it is inclined to believe that", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is preferred that" interchangeable with "it prefers that"?

While both express preference, "it is preferred that" suggests a general recommendation or standard, whereas ""it prefers that"" indicates a specific entity's preference.

When is it appropriate to use "it prefers that" in writing?

"It prefers that" is suitable for formal or professional contexts where you need to express an organization's or system's preference. Ensure that the subject "it" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.