we prefer that

USAGE SUMMARY

"we prefer that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to state the preference of a group or yourself regarding some action or event. For example, "We prefer that the meeting be held outside."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So we prefer that".

The New Yorker

We prefer that".

The New York Times

We prefer that images be at least 2500px on the long end (max 3000px), and cropped at 5x3 aspect ratio whenever possible.

Cornell University

He said: "As strikers we prefer that system as it gives us more attacking opportunities and if we don't use that system we suffer a bit.

The Guardian - Sport

This must be completed and submitted by no later than 8 59 PM, Pacific Standard time, December 3. We prefer that letters of recommendation be submitted online as provided for in the application.

University of California, Berkeley

Shouldn't we prefer that undergraduates with good ideas wait a bit before rushing to journals with them?

Science Magazine

"As strikers, we prefer that system as it gives us more attacking opportunities and if we don't use that system we suffer a bit," said Messi.

BBC

"We prefer that this would be solved politically," he said.

The New York Times

We prefer that applications be submitted and complete by December 1, 2018.

Yale University

However, we prefer that you select one and stay with it.

Cornell University

We prefer that prerequisite courses in biology be taken within five years of application.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When stating a preference, follow "we prefer that" with a clause using the subjunctive mood to express a desired outcome or condition. For example, "We prefer that the report be submitted by Friday."

Common error

Avoid using the indicative mood after "we prefer that" when the subjunctive is required. Saying "We prefer that he goes" is less formal and grammatically weaker than "We prefer that he go".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we prefer that" functions as a clause introducer, signaling a statement of preference or recommendation. It sets the stage for a subordinate clause that expresses the specific desired action or state. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is both grammatically correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

29%

News & Media

44%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we prefer that" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase for expressing preferences, suitable for a range of contexts from academic to journalistic. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. To ensure clarity, use the subjunctive mood in the following clause. While alternatives exist, each carries slight variations in formality and emphasis. Remember to avoid common errors like incorrect tense usage to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we would rather

Indicates a stronger degree of preference than "we prefer that".

our preference is that

More formal way of expressing preference, emphasizing it as an official stance.

we'd like it if

Softer and more polite way to express a desire or preference.

it is our preference that

Highly formal and emphasizes the official nature of the preference.

we are inclined to

Suggests a tendency or leaning towards a particular option.

we find it preferable that

Highlights the reasoning behind the preference, suggesting a comparative evaluation.

we favor the idea that

Emphasizes support for a particular concept or proposal.

we lean towards

Suggests a mild preference or inclination.

we are more comfortable with

Focuses on comfort and ease with a particular choice.

we would be happier if

Expresses a preference based on increasing satisfaction or happiness.

FAQs

How can I use "we prefer that" in a sentence?

Use "we prefer that" to introduce a subordinate clause expressing a preference. For example, "We prefer that all applications "be submitted" online."

What's a more formal alternative to "we prefer that"?

A more formal alternative is "it is our preference that". For example, "It is our preference that the matter "be handled" with discretion."

Is it always necessary to use "that" after "we prefer"?

While not strictly required, including "that" after "we prefer" improves clarity and formality. Omitting it can make the sentence sound less precise, especially in formal writing.

What verb tense should I use after "we prefer that"?

Use the base form of the verb (subjunctive mood) after "we prefer that" to express a desired action or state. For example, "We prefer that the document "be revised" before submission."