more precious than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more precious than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the value or importance of one thing to another, often in a sentimental or emotional context. Example: "Her friendship is more precious than all the riches in the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some memories are more precious than gold.

The New York Times - Sports

Life is more precious than electricity.

The New York Times

It was more precious than gold.

The Guardian - Arts

"And your blood is more precious than mine".

The New York Times

If anything, it is more precious than ever before.

The New York Times

Crystal Martinez's possessions are more precious than the average teenager's.

The New York Times

That's because vanilla is costlier and more precious than ever.

The New York Times - Food

It is far more precious than saving money by outsourcing.

The Guardian - Arts

Nothing is more precious than our freedom, and that comes from access to justice.

The New York Times

His every step now, after all, seems more precious than ever.

Independent

Life is more precious than taking a call or answering an e-mail message.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more precious than", ensure the comparison is clear and the context emphasizes the sentimental or intrinsic value being highlighted. For instance, "Memories are more precious than material possessions."

Common error

Avoid using "more precious than" when referring to purely monetary value. While you can say "time is more precious than money", it's less appropriate to say "this car is more precious than that one" unless emphasizing sentimental rather than market value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more precious than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is a common expression used to indicate that something holds a higher value or importance compared to something else. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, emphasizing sentimental or intrinsic value.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more precious than" is a widely used and grammatically correct comparative adjective phrase that expresses a higher degree of value or importance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, it effectively conveys sentimental or intrinsic worth. While alternatives like "more valuable than" and "more cherished than" exist, the original phrase remains a powerful and versatile tool for emphasizing what truly matters. Remember to use it where sentimental or intrinsic value is clearly intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more valuable than

Replaces "precious" with "valuable", focusing on the worth or usefulness of something.

more cherished than

Substitutes "precious" with "cherished", highlighting the emotional attachment and care associated with something.

more esteemed than

Replaces "precious" with "esteemed", emphasizing the respect and admiration for something.

more significant than

Substitutes "precious" with "significant", highlighting the importance and impact of something.

more irreplaceable than

Replaces "precious" with "irreplaceable", emphasizing the uniqueness and essential nature of something.

of greater importance than

Uses a more formal structure to express a higher level of importance.

more highly prized than

Replaces "precious" with "highly prized", focusing on the desirability and value placed on something.

more loved than

Substitutes "precious" with "loved", highlighting the affection and care associated with something.

more vital than

Replaces "precious" with "vital", emphasizing the necessity and crucial nature of something.

more paramount than

Substitutes "precious" with "paramount", emphasizing that something is above everything else.

FAQs

How can I use "more precious than" in a sentence?

Use "more precious than" to compare the value or importance of one thing to another, often in a sentimental or emotional context. For example, "Her health is more precious than her career."

What can I say instead of "more precious than"?

You can use alternatives like "more valuable than", "more cherished than", or "more significant than" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "more precious than" and "more valuable than"?

"More precious than" often implies sentimental or intrinsic value, while "more valuable than" suggests monetary or practical worth. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize emotional significance or material worth.

Is it correct to use "more precious than gold"?

Yes, using "more precious than gold" is a common and correct way to emphasize that something is extremely valuable, often in a non-material sense. It's a figurative expression used to highlight the high worth of something like love or freedom.