preferred means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preferred means" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a favored method or way of doing something. Example: "In our research, we found that the preferred means of communication among team members is email."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The bike, her preferred means of travel, was an essential part of her life.

The New York Times

He said a mansion tax was still the Lib Dems' preferred means of getting more tax out of the wealthy.

The Guardian

I don't know what the C-word is in Cantonese, but according to the subtitles it was Mary's preferred means of addressing Pai.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The closure is also partly influenced by the fact that on-site commenting is no longer many users' preferred means of discourse.

TechCrunch

Women who were interested in participating returned a reply slip to the researcher, which included preferred means of communication (i.e. telephone, email).

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

His preferred means were kindness, laughter and lunch.

The Guardian - Arts

Rowing is the preferred means of locomotion on the lake.

The New York Times

As in Italy, faxes remain the preferred means of correspondence.

The New York Times

He later described the one-sitting method as his preferred means of writing.

The New Yorker

But for regular conversation, signing still seems to be the preferred means of communication.

The New York Times

In voyeurism, observing the sexual activity of others repeatedly is the preferred means of sexual arousal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preferred means" in formal writing to convey a sense of authority and expertise when discussing best practices.

Common error

Avoid using "preferred means" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "best way" or "favorite method" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preferred means" functions as a noun phrase identifying a favored or recommended method for achieving a specific outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, showing it acts to specify a method or approach considered superior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preferred means" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a favored or recommended method, as validated by Ludwig AI. While versatile, it's most commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. Its purpose is to advise or inform about the best approach, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. When aiming for simplicity, consider alternatives like "best way" or "favorite method" for informal settings. Remember, using the phrase appropriately ensures clarity and authority in your writing, particularly in professional contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

favored approach

Emphasizes a subjective preference or inclination towards a specific method.

optimal method

Focuses on the method that yields the best possible outcome or result.

chosen way

Highlights the act of selecting a particular course of action or method.

preferred route

Implies a selection of a specific path, either literally or figuratively, over other options.

favored technique

Indicates a specific skill or procedure that is particularly liked or effective.

best course of action

Highlights the most advantageous or effective strategy in a given situation.

selected strategy

Emphasizes the intentional choice of a particular plan or approach.

ideal solution

Focuses on the perfect or most desirable answer to a problem or challenge.

go-to method

Indicates a reliable and frequently used method for achieving a specific goal.

most suitable option

Focuses on the choice that is best aligned with the specific requirements or circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "preferred means" in a sentence?

Use "preferred means" to indicate a method that is favored or recommended over others, as in, "For long-distance communication, email is often the "preferred means"".

What are some alternatives to "preferred means"?

You can use alternatives such as "favored approach", "optimal method", or "chosen way" depending on the specific context.

Is "preferred means" suitable for informal communication?

While grammatically correct, "preferred means" is more suited for formal or professional contexts. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "best way" or "favorite method".

What is the difference between "preferred means" and "best method"?

"Preferred means" implies a degree of subjectivity or recommendation, while "best method" suggests a more objective assessment of effectiveness. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize preference or optimal performance.