the better part

USAGE SUMMARY

'the better part' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is superior or more favorable than something else. For example: "The better part of me wants to stay and make things work, but the other part doesn't."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Courage is the better part of valor.

The New York Times

Or the better part of political valor.

The New York Times

We spent the better part of a week together.

Princeton University

Cleaning up took the better part of a year.

The New York Times - Magazine

Shepherdson spent the better part of two decades pursuing Cassius.

The New York Times

So went the better part of 20 years.

The New York Times

It consumed the better part of three presidential terms.

The New York Times - Sports

For the better part of five weeks, the Nets evolved.

The New York Times - Sports

Discretion is always the better part of an ASEAN communiqué.

The Economist

The trip took the better part of a whole day.

The New York Times

The drive took the better part of the morning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the better part" to indicate duration, ensure the context clearly establishes the timeframe. For instance, "He spent the better part of the afternoon reading" clarifies the temporal aspect.

Common error

Avoid using "the better part" when simply describing a large portion without implying a comparison or contrast. "A large part" may be more appropriate if no superior aspect is being highlighted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the better part" functions primarily as a modifier indicating a significant portion of something, often time or an attribute. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing a notable segment or a superior aspect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

36%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the better part" is a versatile phrase used to denote a significant portion or a superior aspect. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in a wide array of contexts. It appears frequently in news and media, as well as in academic writing, suggesting a neutral register. When writing, remember to use "the better part" when you want to emphasize a substantial amount or the superior quality of something, ensuring the context clarifies the timeframe or comparison being made. Avoid using it when simply describing a large portion without implying a comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the greater portion

Similar to 'most of', but with a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing the larger share.

the majority of

Formally denotes more than half of a group or quantity, stressing prevalence.

most of

Indicates the majority or largest portion of something, emphasizing quantity over quality.

the bulk of

Emphasizes the main or largest part of something, often referring to physical mass or volume.

a significant portion

Focuses on the quantity or extent of something, emphasizing its importance in terms of size or duration.

a good deal of

Suggests a substantial quantity or extent, often used in informal contexts.

a considerable amount

Highlights a notable quantity or degree, indicating something substantial or worthy of attention.

the lion's share

Implies receiving the largest or most desirable portion, often with a sense of unfairness or competition.

the best aspect

Shifts focus to the most positive or advantageous feature, differing from a neutral portion.

discretion is the greater part of valor

Alters the sentiment to prioritizing caution and prudence over bravery, changing the core meaning of 'better'.

FAQs

How can I use "the better part" in a sentence?

You can use "the better part" to describe a significant portion of time or something that is superior. For example, "The better part of the day was spent traveling" or "Discretion is the better part of valor".

What are some alternatives to "the better part"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a significant portion", "most of", or "a considerable amount".

Is it always appropriate to use "the better part" to describe a duration of time?

While common, using "the better part" to describe duration should imply that the time was substantial or significant. If the time is relatively short or insignificant, consider using "a short time" or "briefly" instead.

When should I use "discretion is the better part of valor"?

Use "discretion is the better part of valor" when you want to suggest that it is wise to be cautious and avoid unnecessary risks, even if it means appearing less brave.