preferred mode

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preferred mode" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone's or something's favored method or manner of doing something. Example: "In our survey, we found that the preferred mode of communication among team members is email."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Leeches were the preferred mode of treatment.

The New Yorker

J-band longpass: Becoming new preferred mode.

Princeton University

Besides poetry, letter writing was Stevens's preferred mode of communication.

The New York Times

As for gambling, the stock market is their preferred mode.

The New York Times

Early on, equestrian archery was the preferred mode.

The New York Times - Arts

"Her preferred mode is fierce, devoted and elegiac".

The New York Times - Books

The most preferred mode of service delivery was through calls.

Asian Journal of Psychiatry

West's preferred mode of transportation was a specially outfitted stretch limousine.

The New York Times - Style

It is not clear whether this would have been Justice's preferred mode of dissemination.

The Guardian - Music

The preferred mode of orthodox Marxism was not modernism; it was realism.

The New Yorker

*A previous version of this post misstated Donald Trump's preferred mode of speaking.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, use "preferred mode" to denote a default setting or configuration. Provide instructions on how to change it if necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "preferred mode" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "favorite way" or "best method" often sound more natural and less stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preferred mode" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing a favored method, approach, or setting, often in contrast to other available options. According to Ludwig AI, this is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preferred mode" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a favored method or approach. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and business contexts, often indicating the optimal or most suitable option among several. While versatile, it's important to consider the tone and audience, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in informal settings. Common authoritative sources that use this phrase are The New York Times, The Guardian, Forbes and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

favored method

Emphasizes liking or choosing something over other options. More subjective.

preferred approach

Highlights a chosen way of dealing with a situation or problem. Focuses on a specific methodology.

chosen method

Focuses on the act of selecting a particular method.

ideal approach

Suggests the best possible way of doing something, potentially more aspirational.

optimal method

Focuses on the most efficient or effective way to achieve a specific outcome.

favored alternative

Emphasizes preference for one choice among several available options.

selected strategy

Indicates a deliberate choice of a plan of action.

dominant practice

Points out the most common or prevalent way of doing something, regardless of explicit preference.

customary procedure

Refers to an established or traditional way of doing things.

standard operating procedure

Describes a specific set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex routine operations.

FAQs

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

You can use "preferred mode" to describe a favored method or approach. For example, "Email is the "preferred mode" of communication for many businesses."

What are some alternatives to "preferred mode"?

Alternatives include "favored method", "preferred approach", or "chosen method" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "preferred mode" over other alternatives?

"Preferred mode" is suitable for formal or technical contexts where precision is important. In more casual settings, simpler terms might be better.

Is "preferred mode" always the best way to express a preference?

Not always. While grammatically correct, "preferred mode" can sound overly formal. Consider the audience and choose language that fits the tone and context.