that was preferable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that was preferable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that a particular option or choice was more desirable compared to others in a given context. Example: "After considering all the options, I concluded that the solution you proposed was preferable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Otherwise, "you're creating greater uncertainty, and how do you justify that this is a change that was preferable?" said Lynn Turner, the former chief accountant of the S.E.C. and a professor of accounting at Colorado State University.

The New York Times

Cast as a market-driven strategy that was preferable to a tax, cap and trade drew considerable bipartisan support before the nation's political landscape shifted, climate legislation fizzled in Congress and the economic model became a focus of derision for ascendant Republican conservatives.

The New York Times - Science

The warm white diode laser light that was preferable to consumers is created by a combination of the four laser beams -- yellow, blue, green and red.

Huffington Post

While he agreed that civilian politicians were corrupt, he said that was preferable to martial law.

The New York Times

But that was preferable to sacrificing office space in a building that's 98 percent leased, he said.

The New York Times

But $28 billion of those efficiency savings must be devoted to paying unexpected bills for such things as rising fuel costs and maintenance, but that was preferable to raiding current operating funds to meet those unanticipated expenses.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

If you scorch the rind, that's preferable.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Few cities in the United States have a local newspaper that is preferable to USA Today.

The New Yorker

Could that revenue be taxed in ways that are preferable from the standpoint of equity and economic effects?

Encyclopedia Britannica

The modest-sized wine list sports a selection that is preferable to those I have seen on lists many times its size.

The New York Times

The CNTs as carbon allotropes illustrate the amazing mechanical, chemical, and electrical properties that are preferable for use in biosensors.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that was preferable" to clearly indicate a choice that was considered better than other alternatives in a specific context. Ensure the reason for the preference is clear to maintain clarity.

Common error

Avoid excessive use of passive voice when using "that was preferable". Instead of saying "it was decided that this was preferable", opt for a more direct approach like "the team decided this was preferable" for a stronger and more concise statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that was preferable" functions as a subject complement, indicating a state or condition that is considered more desirable. It describes what was the preferred option or choice. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

39%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that was preferable" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a past preference or judgment. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, though more formal settings might warrant a more sophisticated alternative. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. Remember to avoid overusing the passive voice when employing this phrase for clearer communication. Considering related phrases like "that was the better option" enhances your writing's precision. While "that was preferable" is a valid choice, understanding its nuances ensures its effective application in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that was the better option

Focuses on the comparative advantage of one option over others.

that was the preferred method

Focuses on the method being chosen over other alternatives.

that was the more desirable choice

Emphasizes the attractiveness and desirability of the chosen option.

that was the superior alternative

Highlights the higher quality or effectiveness of the selected alternative.

that was the favored solution

Indicates that the solution was particularly well-received or supported.

that was the advantageous alternative

Highlights the benefits and advantages of the selected alternative.

that was the ideal approach

Suggests that the approach was the most suitable or perfect for the situation.

that was the optimal course of action

Highlights that the action was the most efficient or effective way to achieve a goal.

that was the advisable route

Implies that the route was the most prudent or recommended choice.

that was the more appropriate selection

Emphasizes the suitability and relevance of the chosen selection.

FAQs

How can I use "that was preferable" in a sentence?

You can use "that was preferable" to indicate that a particular option or action was considered more desirable than others. For example, "Given the circumstances, we felt that approach "that approach" was preferable."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "that was preferable"?

Similar phrases include "that was the better option", "that was the preferred method", or "that was the more desirable choice". Each emphasizes a different aspect of preference.

Is "that was preferable" formal or informal?

"That was preferable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider using a more sophisticated synonym to enhance the tone.

What determines why something "that was preferable"?

The reasons can vary greatly. It could be due to increased efficiency, lower cost, reduced risk, or better alignment with overall goals. The context should make the reason clear.