overriding preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overriding preference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a preference that takes precedence over others in a given context. Example: "In this decision-making process, the overriding preference is to prioritize sustainability over cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

These frequency data are rationalised in terms of the molecular complexity of fragments, the overriding preference for centrosymmetric packing, and the stringent requirements of donor-acceptor and solubility match in binary crystals.

Crystal Engineering

These results are in line with the results by Vandenbussche et al. (1999), who found that professionals were clearly antipathetic to caesarean section while patients had no overriding preference for type of birth [ 38].

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

As previously reported by King et al (2000), most patients were satisfied with their treatment in whichever location it was delivered, with an overriding preference for future treatment in the community.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Giving up favorite foods is never easy, food scientists say, for it means overriding taste preferences imprinted on the brain during a lifetime of eating.

The New York Times

These rules include a preference for "authenticity" over artifice and an overriding admiration for rebellion and masculinity.

The New Yorker

Clarke reiterated that the FA's preference was for an English manager "if we can get one", but that the overriding requirement was to get "the best man for the job".

The Guardian - Sport

"What was the overriding question?

The New Yorker

"That is the overriding statistic.

The New York Times - Sports

The overriding goal: "Pure Color.

The New Yorker

Placement is the overriding consideration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The overriding conclusion?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overriding preference", ensure it's clear what alternatives it is taking precedence over. Providing context clarifies the significance of the preference.

Common error

Avoid using "overriding preference" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "main choice" or "top priority" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overriding preference" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'overriding' modifies the noun 'preference'. It typically serves to identify the most important or dominant choice among several options. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "overriding preference" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the dominance of a particular choice or consideration. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While it appears in various contexts, it's most commonly found in scientific and news-related domains. For less formal settings, simpler alternatives like "main choice" or "top priority" may be more appropriate. Ensure clarity when using the phrase by explicitly stating what alternatives it overrides.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary choice

Emphasizes the selection of something as the main or most important option.

dominant inclination

Highlights a strong tendency or leaning that prevails over others.

chief priority

Indicates the highest-ranking item in terms of importance or urgency.

paramount consideration

Stresses that something is of utmost importance when making a decision.

prevailing desire

Focuses on a wish or yearning that is stronger than any other.

supreme interest

Highlights the aspect that someone cares about the most.

main predilection

Indicates a specific liking or fondness that is the most significant.

critical factor

Highlights the essential element that has to be taken into account.

decisive element

Emphasizes the component that ultimately determines the outcome.

foremost concern

Focuses on the most important worry or issue.

FAQs

What does "overriding preference" mean?

The term "overriding preference" signifies a choice or consideration that is more important than others and takes precedence when making decisions or setting priorities. It indicates that other factors are secondary to this particular preference.

How can I use "overriding preference" in a sentence?

You can use "overriding preference" to indicate a priority. For example: "In this decision-making process, the "primary preference" is to prioritize sustainability over cost."

What are some alternatives to "overriding preference"?

Alternatives to "overriding preference" include phrases like "primary choice", "main priority", or "dominant inclination". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "overriding preference" formal or informal?

"Overriding preference" is generally considered a more formal term. In casual contexts, simpler terms like "main choice" or "top priority" might be more suitable.