the preferred method is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the preferred method is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a specific approach or technique that is favored in a particular context or situation. Example: "In our research, the preferred method is to conduct surveys to gather data from participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The preferred method is to shoot out low, reducing wind resistance.

The New York Times - Sports

The World Health Organization says the preferred method is carcass burning, whether in pits, with flame guns, on the open ground or in commercial incinerators.

The New York Times

The preferred method is to attack in a violent and deceptive form (shock attack), usually with limited forces (1-2 individuals).

The New York Times

During the last century we have gone from shooting and hanging the condemned to gassing and electrocuting them; now the preferred method is usually strapping them to a gurney shaped like a crucifix and injecting them with lethal chemicals.

The New York Times

For anyone who's grown up on mainstream BBC radio (that'll be me) the DJing style is extraordinary – there's no talking over the top of music, fading out or wittering about your lunch with your wacky studio pals – instead, the preferred method is to pause the tune, blurt out a couple of words, press play again and repeat when necessary.

The Guardian

The preferred method is the well-known Vladivostok Opening.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The preferred method was also applied with a nonlinear curve for tank permeability, and this approximation also offers accurate results in this case.

Electric Power Systems Research

The preferred method was a strict diet for 2 to 3 days (also called 'starvation diet') in order to allow the microbial community to convalesce and to adapt to new conditions.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

In Europe, the preferred method was to clandestinely buy either a 51percentt share or a blocking minority share.

Huffington Post

The preferred method was to use in vitro permeability data obtained from the Calu-3 cell line.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

The preferred method was majority rule, in which the most commonly observed base was selected, but alternative base selections were also tested and the most conservative estimate, or the lowest ω value, was reported.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the preferred method is", ensure you clearly articulate why it is preferred, providing context or justification for the recommendation.

Common error

Avoid stating "the preferred method is" without explaining the situation or alternatives. Always provide enough information for the reader to understand the preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the preferred method is" serves as an introductory phrase to highlight a recommended or favored approach. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and functions to set the stage for presenting a specific technique or action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the preferred method is" is a grammatically sound and commonly used way to introduce a recommended approach or technique. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread utility. This phrase is found across diverse contexts, with a higher prevalence in scientific, news, and wiki sources. When using this phrase, clarity is key. Always provide sufficient context to justify why the method is preferred and prevent oversimplification. Consider related phrases like "the recommended approach is" or "the optimal way is" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the recommended approach is

Replaces 'preferred' with 'recommended', emphasizing suggestion over personal liking.

the favored technique is

Substitutes 'method' with 'technique', focusing on a specific procedure or skill.

the optimal way is

Uses 'optimal' instead of 'preferred', highlighting efficiency and effectiveness.

the best course of action is

Offers a broader perspective by suggesting the most effective action to take.

the standard practice is

Indicates a common and widely accepted procedure.

the usual procedure is

Focuses on what is typically done, rather than what is favored.

it is better to

Shortens the phrase to a direct recommendation.

the most suitable option is

Emphasizes the appropriateness of a choice based on specific needs.

the advisable strategy is

Replaces 'method' with 'strategy', indicating a planned approach.

the accepted manner is

Highlights what is conventionally regarded as the correct way to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "the preferred method is" in a sentence?

You can use "the preferred method is" to introduce a recommended approach or technique. For example, "When installing the software, "the preferred method is" to follow the step-by-step guide".

What are some alternatives to "the preferred method is"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the recommended approach is", "the optimal way is", or "the best course of action is", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to state why a method is 'preferred'?

While not always mandatory, explaining why a method is preferred adds clarity and context. Providing a rationale strengthens your recommendation and helps the audience understand the advantages.

What's the difference between "the preferred method is" and "the only method is"?

"The preferred method is" suggests that other options exist but are less desirable. "The only method is" implies that there are no other viable alternatives.