preference is given to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preference is given to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where certain individuals or groups are favored or prioritized over others, often in applications or selection processes. Example: "In this job application, preference is given to candidates with relevant experience and qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Preference is given to families".

The Guardian

Enrollment preference is given to freshmen.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Preference is given to Urban Studies majors.

Columbia University

Preference is given to law students.

Cornell University

Preference is given to ESS majors.

Cornell University

Preference is given to men with military experience.

The Guardian

Preference is given to students of Latino family heritage.

Cornell University

Preference is given to students interested in public interest law.

Cornell University

Preference is given to work done in the recent past.

Columbia University

Preference is given to a student who is a parent.

Cornell University

Preference is given to students from Long Island.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preference is given to", clearly state the criteria or reasons for the preference to avoid ambiguity or perceptions of unfairness. For example, specify "preference is given to candidates with prior experience in the field".

Common error

Avoid stating preferences without specific justification. Simply saying "preference is given to internal candidates" without detailing necessary skills or qualifications can foster discontent and accusations of bias. Always provide a clear, justifiable rationale.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preference is given to" functions as a modifier, indicating that a particular person, group, or item is favored or receives priority over others. Ludwig highlights its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

64%

News & Media

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preference is given to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signals prioritization or favoritism, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is commonly found in academic, news, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, clarity and justification are key to avoid ambiguity or perceptions of unfairness. Alternatives like "priority is assigned to" or "special consideration is given to" can add formality. Be mindful of overgeneralizing preference criteria to maintain transparency and fairness. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase serves to inform about decision-making processes and expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

priority is assigned to

Replaces "preference" with "priority" and uses "assigned" instead of "given", emphasizing a more formal assignment of importance.

priority is granted to

Substitutes "given" with "granted", suggesting a formal or official allocation of priority.

priority is afforded to

Uses "afforded" to convey that priority is provided or made available, often implying a benefit.

advantage is given to

Focuses on the benefit or advantage provided rather than the preference itself.

special consideration is given to

Highlights that particular attention or evaluation is applied, implying a more thoughtful assessment.

selection favors

Directly states that the selection process is inclined towards certain candidates or options.

inclination towards

Indicates a leaning or tendency to choose one option over others, less formal than "preference is given to".

priority consideration is extended to

Emphasizes the act of extending consideration, making it a more formal and elaborate expression.

emphasis is placed on

Shifts focus to the element of emphasis rather than explicit preference, highlighting importance.

special attention is paid to

Similar to "special consideration", this highlights that specific focus and care are directed towards something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "preference is given to" to sound more formal?

You can use alternatives such as "priority is assigned to", "priority is granted to", or "special consideration is extended to" to convey a more formal tone. These options emphasize the structured and official nature of the prioritization.

What does it mean when "preference is given to" a certain group or criteria?

It means that, all other things being equal, that group or those criteria will be favored over others. For example, if "preference is given to students from Long Island", those students will be more likely to receive a scholarship than students from other locations, assuming they meet all other requirements.

Is it acceptable to use "preference is given to" in academic writing?

Yes, it is acceptable. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in academic contexts to indicate prioritization or favored status. Ensure the statement is clear and supported by appropriate reasoning.

What are some less formal ways to say "preference is given to"?

Less formal options include "selection favors", "inclination towards", or simply stating what is emphasized, like "emphasis is placed on". These options are more suitable for casual conversation or less formal writing.