Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
orders of preference
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "orders of preference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing priorities or rankings of choices or options based on personal or organizational preferences. Example: "In our decision-making process, we will establish clear orders of preference to ensure everyone is aligned on the most important criteria."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
Orders of preference may be required for smoking status, smoking product, the unexposed base, and extent of confounder adjustment.
Science
When multiple orders of preference are involved, the sequence of implementation may affect the selection, so preferences for the most important aspects, usually concerning smoking, are implemented first.
Science
Under our assay conditions, the three ester hydrolases hydrolysed short-to-medium-chain-length tri-acyl-glycerides and alkyl esters, but with different ranges of reactivities and orders of preference.
The affinities of proteins for metals are influenced by universal orders of preference, which for biologically essential divalent metals includes the Irving-Williams series, which ranks the relative stability of complexes formed with each metal ion [ 4]. (Monovalent copper also forms tight associations with proteins, particularly when the ligands are cysteine thiolates, as in metallothioneins).
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
Establishing these (preferably in some order of preference) should involve a national conversation that includes as many interested parties as possible.
News & Media
In Wales, parents give their preferred schools in order of preference.
News & Media
The order of preference was reversed.
News & Media
Listed in order of preference.
News & Media
Rank these in order of preference.
News & Media
Listed in order of preference in each category.
News & Media
The six wines here are listed in order of preference.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "orders of preference", clearly define the criteria used to establish the ranking. This enhances the clarity and justification of your choices.
Common error
Avoid using "orders of preference" interchangeably with "orders of priority" without considering the specific context. "Preference" often reflects subjective choices, while "priority" implies a more objective assessment of importance.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "orders of preference" functions as a noun phrase that describes a ranked or hierarchical arrangement of options, choices, or priorities based on subjective or objective criteria. As Ludwig suggests, this phrase describes priorities or rankings of choices.
Frequent in
Science
50%
News & Media
50%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "orders of preference" is a noun phrase used to describe a ranked arrangement of choices or priorities. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English and is suitable for contexts where clear ranking criteria are needed, such as in science and news reporting. While not an extremely common phrase, it provides a precise way to express a structured decision-making process based on subjective preferences or objective priorities. Remember to clearly define ranking criteria for best usage and avoid confusing preference with priority in your writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
ranking of priorities
This alternative focuses on the hierarchical arrangement of priorities, which is a core aspect of "orders of preference".
hierarchy of choices
This alternative uses "hierarchy" to emphasize the structured arrangement of choices, similar to the concept of ordered preferences.
prioritization sequence
This phrase highlights the act of prioritizing and the resulting sequence, mirroring the establishment of preference orders.
preferred sequence
This alternative emphasizes the sequence based on what is preferred.
preference rankings
This alternative reverses the word order while retaining the core meaning of ranking preferences.
list of priorities
This is a more straightforward alternative, focusing on a list format for priorities.
priority list
This is a shorter, more concise version focusing on listing priorities.
relative importance
This phrase captures the idea of comparing the significance of different items, influencing their order of preference.
scale of preference
This alternative uses "scale" to suggest a continuum or range of preferences.
preferred options
This alternative emphasizes the preferred choices without directly referencing the ordering itself.
FAQs
How can I use "orders of preference" in a sentence?
You can use "orders of preference" to describe a ranked list of choices. For example, "When selecting a new vendor, we established clear "orders of preference" based on cost, quality, and reliability."
What are some alternatives to "orders of preference"?
Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "ranking of priorities", "hierarchy of choices", or "prioritization sequence".
Is "order of preference" singular or plural?
"Orders of preference" is the plural form, used when referring to multiple ranked lists or criteria. The singular form, "order of preference", refers to a single ranking.
In what contexts is "orders of preference" most appropriate?
The phrase "orders of preference" is suitable in formal contexts where clear ranking criteria are needed, such as in scientific studies, meta-analyses, or strategic decision-making. It is often used when a specific sequence is important.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested