on a preferential basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a preferential basis" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe how something is done differently for certain people because of special advantages that they have been given. For example: "The new housing development plans to accept applications on a preferential basis for people who are disabled or elderly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

At the movement's height, there were more than 1,000 theatres in America that screened black-audience films either exclusively or on a preferential basis.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

On a financial basis, meh.

The New York Times

"Not on a regular basis".

The New Yorker

It delivers payments on a consistent basis.

Independent

ShoeDazzle sells shoes on a subscription basis.

The New York Times

"You see that on a consistent basis.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's challenging on a daily basis".

The New York Times

"We talk on a regular basis.

The New York Times - Sports

We speak on a daily basis.

Independent

"All that happens on a consistent basis.

Independent

It comes on a daily basis.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a preferential basis" when you want to clearly communicate that certain individuals or groups are receiving advantages or benefits that are not universally available. Ensure the context makes it clear why this preference is being granted.

Common error

Avoid using "on a preferential basis" without clearly defining the criteria for preference. Failing to do so can lead to confusion or accusations of unfairness. Always specify who receives the preference and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a preferential basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe how something is done. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in English, confirming its grammatical validity. It indicates that actions are carried out with a bias toward certain entities.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a preferential basis" is used to describe situations where advantages or special treatment are given to certain entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English, indicating its function as an adverbial phrase that modifies verbs or clauses. Although "on a preferential basis" is grammatically correct, it is a relatively rare and more formal expression, typically found in news, business, and formal contexts. When using this phrase, it's essential to clearly define the criteria for preference to avoid ambiguity or accusations of unfairness. Alternative phrases like "on a favored basis" or "on a priority basis" can be used to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a favored basis

This alternative uses "favored" instead of "preferential", emphasizing the aspect of being favored or liked.

with preferential treatment

This highlights the action of treating someone or something preferentially.

on a priority basis

This implies that some individuals or groups are given precedence or higher priority.

under a system of preference

This emphasizes the existence of a structured system for giving preference.

with preference given to

This phrase restructures the sentence to highlight the act of giving preference.

based on preferential terms

This specifies that the basis is the preferential terms someone is receiving.

with special consideration for

This suggests that certain individuals or groups receive particular attention or care.

on a discriminatory basis

This focuses on discrimination, however, can be used for the same function.

on an advantageous basis

This focuses on the benefit or advantage conferred.

on a privileged basis

This suggests access to special rights or opportunities not available to everyone.

FAQs

How can I use "on a preferential basis" in a sentence?

You can use "on a preferential basis" to describe situations where certain people receive special treatment. For example, "The company hires veterans "on a preferential basis"".

What's a good alternative to "on a preferential basis"?

Alternatives include "on a favored basis", "on a priority basis", or "with preference given to" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to offer services "on a preferential basis"?

Offering services "on a preferential basis" can be appropriate if the criteria for preference are fair, transparent, and justifiable. However, it can be problematic if it leads to discrimination or unfairness.

What does it mean when something is offered "on a preferential basis"?

It means that some people or groups receive better treatment or advantages compared to others. This could include lower prices, faster service, or exclusive access.