or better even

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "or better even" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to suggest something far better than what was previously mentioned. Example: "He was an average painter, or better even, he was a skilled artist."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

For banks to pass the tests, they must show that their Tier 1 capital ratio — the strictest measure of a bank's ability to absorb financial blows — will be at 5 percent or better, even in the Fed's nightmare case.

The New York Times

We demonstrate the algorithm using class averages from two experimental data sets, resulting in ab initio models with resolutions of 20 Å or better, even from class averages consisting of as few as three raw images per class.

Journal of Structural Biology

When 50 mL ethyl acetate and 25 g sample were used, 25 g sodium sulfate was sufficient to obtain recoveries of 80% or better, even for very polar and highly water-soluble compounds, for example acephate and methamidophos.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Union scale, that is (or, even better, above scale).

Huffington Post

Or better yet: don't even read it".

The Guardian - Books

Or, better yet, don't even bother going online.

TechCrunch

Or better yet, don't even check.

WikiHow

Music may not make you a genius, or rich, or even a better person.

The New York Times

"Does one get better, or even different?" he wrote.

The Economist

So which form of the Open Lane structure is better, or even valid, under Delaware law?

The New York Times

But how much better, or even different, this new dawn will be remains uncertain.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "or better even" to suggest a superior alternative that significantly enhances the previously mentioned option. Ensure the context clearly indicates the improved outcome or quality.

Common error

Avoid using "or better even" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. It can sometimes sound informal, so opt for alternatives like "or preferably" or "or ideally" to maintain a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "or better even" functions as a conjunction, connecting two alternatives where the second option is significantly superior to the first. It indicates an upgrade or enhanced state, as confirmed by Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "or better even" is a grammatically correct conjunction used to introduce a significantly improved alternative. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it is relatively rare and its frequency is uncommon and typically used in News & Media and Science. When aiming for highly formal language, consider "or preferably" or "or ideally". Use "or better even" to emphasize a notable upgrade.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

or still better

Suggests a further improvement beyond what was previously mentioned.

or even ideally

Similar to 'or ideally' but with added emphasis on the ideal situation.

or preferably

Focuses on preference rather than a strict upgrade in quality.

or ideally

Highlights the most desired or perfect scenario.

or, to improve matters

Emphasizes the intent to make the situation better.

or more desirably

Indicates a more attractive or favorable outcome.

or to put it better

Focuses on improved wording or explanation.

or what’s preferable

Directly asks what is preferred.

or in a superior way

Highlights the higher quality or standard.

or more commendably

Indicates actions that are more praiseworthy.

FAQs

How can I use "or better even" in a sentence?

Use "or better even" to introduce a more desirable or effective alternative to something previously mentioned. For example: "The initial plan was good, or better even, excellent."

What are some alternatives to "or better even"?

You can use alternatives like "or preferably", "or ideally", or "or still better" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "or better even" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "or better even" may sound informal in certain contexts. Consider using alternatives like "or preferably" or "or more desirably" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "or better even" and "or even better"?

"Or better even" emphasizes a stronger degree of improvement or desirability compared to "or even better". The subtle difference lies in the placement of "even", which amplifies the improved state when placed after "better".