preferable to less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preferable to less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two options, indicating that one option is more desirable than having less of something. Example: "In terms of quality, having more resources is preferable to less."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Based on our findings, we may conclude that FFB grafts with a density >800 HU are clinically preferable to less dense grafts, due to their lower degree of resorption.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

We deemed this approach preferable to the less conservative and less computationally efficient method of sub-sampling TRs or interpolating time courses across multiple samples on a voxel-wise basis.

Plosone

"He fished a Camel from his shirt pocket may be preferable to the less specific cigarette," it says.

The New York Times - Magazine

Analog insulin cannot automatically be held preferable to the less expensive NPH insulin [ 19].

Acta Diabetologica

It is also preferable to use less harsh conditions by using the highest biomass-to-homogenisation buffer ratio possible for feasible operation.

Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

Although it is always preferable to be less invasive, being non-invasive is not always possible and may even be counter effective.

Critical Care

It is preferable to drink less water during night-time as compared to daytime.

WikiHow

How can we help to make a specific development path that is more or less preferable to us more or less probable?

European Journal of Futures Research

According to advocates, it's far preferable to produce a less complex product that's built around a few artfully realized features versus spending time and money on a far-reaching venture that tries to be all things to all people.

Huffington Post

Moreover, with the advent of minimally invasive surgery (23 25 gauge), it is preferable to use a less viscous silicone oil to save time during its introduction and passage through the small gauge system.

BioMed Research International

Threats, on the other hand, are characterised by compliance that leads to an outcome less preferable to the norm, with non-compliance leading to an outcome less desirable still.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preferable to less", ensure the context clearly establishes what 'less' refers to. For example, 'Having more experience is preferable to less, especially in this field.'

Common error

Avoid using "preferable to less" without specifying what is being compared. For example, instead of saying 'This option is preferable to less', specify 'This detailed plan is preferable to less planning'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preferable to less" functions as a comparative expression, indicating that one option or state is more desirable than having a reduced amount of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

27%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "preferable to less" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative expression that indicates a preference for having more of something or a more thorough approach, as validated by Ludwig. It functions to express this preference clearly and is applicable across various contexts, though clarity in what 'less' refers to is crucial. Common alternatives include phrases like "better than having less" or "more desirable than less". While usable in any register, this phrase is most common in Science, News & Media and Wiki, as observed in Ludwig's examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preferred rather than less

A direct synonym, simply replaces 'preferable' with 'preferred'.

a better option than less

Simplifies the phrase, using "better option" instead of "preferable".

better than having less

Focuses on the improved outcome rather than the preference.

more desirable than less

Emphasizes the desirability aspect of the comparison.

superior to a lesser amount

Uses "superior" to indicate a higher quality in contrast to quantity.

favored over a smaller quantity

Highlights the act of favoring one option over a reduced amount.

more advantageous than a decrease

Shifts the focus to the advantage gained compared to a reduction.

considered above a smaller portion

Emphasizes the act of considering something as superior to a reduced portion.

worth more than a reduction

Emphasizes the value aspect instead of preference.

more welcome than a scarcity

Uses "welcome" to denote a positive reception compared to a lack.

FAQs

How do I use "preferable to less" in a sentence?

Use "preferable to less" when you want to state that having more of something or doing something more thoroughly is better than having or doing less of it. For example, "Detailed planning is "preferable to less" planning when launching a new product".

What are some alternatives to saying "preferable to less"?

You can use phrases like "better than having less", "more desirable than less", or "superior to a lesser amount" as alternatives to "preferable to less", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always correct to use "preferable to less"?

While grammatically correct, "preferable to less" should be used in contexts where the comparison is clear. Avoid using it vaguely; always specify what 'less' refers to in your comparison.

Which is correct, "preferable to less" or "preferable to more"?

"Preferable to less" is used when you are indicating a preference for having more of something or a more thorough approach, whereas "preferable to more" suggests a preference for moderation or reduction in something. The correct choice depends on the specific context.