preferential rate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preferential rate" is correct and usable in written English.
It refers to a lower rate given to a special group of customers, such as members of a loyalty or rewards program. For example, "We offer a preferential rate to customers who have been enrolled in our loyalty program for at least one year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

There is no preferential rate for capital gains.

The New York Times

HSBC Advance customers, meanwhile, get a "preferential rate" of 0.1%.

The Guardian - Money

They offer a preferential rate of interest, which varies from bank to bank.

The Guardian - Money

The preferential rate is said to spur investment, but there is no compelling evidence that this is true.

The New Yorker

Still, that preferential rate doesn't get them anywhere near zero, or even 10 percent.

The New York Times

Compassionate deficit reduction requires a willingness to raise this preferential rate.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

With this knowledge banks such as Abbey have preferential rates for their own customers.

The Guardian - Business

Package tours and other regular group customers also get preferential rates.

The New York Times - Travel

For example, mobile phone and travel insurance, preferential rates for overdrafts etc".

The Guardian - Money

Mr. Dodd said that he did not believe that he received preferential rates, however.

The New York Times

So far, the Saudis have declined to grant Jordan oil at preferential rates, Mr. Alkadiri said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing financial products or services, clearly specify who is eligible for the "preferential rate" and what criteria they must meet.

Common error

Avoid implying that the "preferential rate" offers an unrealistically large advantage. Ensure the actual savings or benefits are clearly and accurately communicated, without exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preferential rate" functions as a noun phrase, where "preferential" modifies "rate". It typically describes a rate that is more advantageous or favorable compared to the standard or regular rate. Ludwig AI confirms this usage aligns with established grammatical conventions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preferential rate" is a commonly used term to describe a rate that is more advantageous than the standard offering. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its frequent occurrence in news, business, and financial contexts indicates its relevance in discussions concerning pricing, benefits, and economic policies. Alternatives such as "discounted rate" or "special rate" offer similar meanings, while slight differences in nuance exist. When using the phrase, clarify eligibility criteria for the "preferential rate" to prevent misunderstandings. By understanding its function and usage, writers can effectively communicate the benefits associated with a more favorable rate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discounted rate

Focuses on the reduction in price or percentage.

special rate

Emphasizes that the rate is not the standard one, applicable to specific situations.

favorable rate

Highlights the advantageous nature of the rate.

reduced rate

Directly indicates a lowering of the standard rate.

subsidized rate

Suggests that the rate is supported by an external entity.

privileged rate

Indicates that the rate is granted as a privilege or benefit.

bargain rate

Suggests a very low or advantageous price, often implying a deal.

promotional rate

Indicates that the rate is part of a promotion or special offer.

wholesale rate

Refers to a rate typically offered to businesses buying in bulk.

courtesy rate

Suggests the reduced rate is offered as a form of goodwill or politeness.

FAQs

How can I use "preferential rate" in a sentence?

You can use "preferential rate" to describe a better rate offered to a specific group. For example, "Long-term customers receive a "preferential rate" on their insurance premiums".

What is another way to say "preferential rate"?

Alternatives to "preferential rate" include "discounted rate", "special rate", or "favorable rate", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "preferential rate" and "preferred rate"?

While similar, "preferential rate" implies a benefit given due to a specific reason or status, whereas "preferred rate" can simply mean a more desired or liked rate. In most cases, they are interchangeable, but "preferential" emphasizes the reason for the rate.

Who typically qualifies for a "preferential rate"?

Those who qualify for a "preferential rate" can vary, but it's often offered to long-term customers, members of specific organizations, or individuals meeting certain criteria, like income level or age.