would like better

USAGE SUMMARY

'would like better' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a preference for something more desirable than what is currently available. For example, "I would like better opportunities for career advancement in my current job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

He has already said that he would like better relations with Israel.

The Economist

There's nothing Alexa Sarmiento would like better than to see her country at peace.

The Guardian

There will be nothing he would like better than to do it again one more time.

The Guardian - Sport

Woody certainly would like better results and would perhaps like for less of the circus that surrounds the team.

The New York Times

"There is nothing we would like better than to end this once and for all," he said.

The New York Times

I think I speak for us all when I say that there is absolutely nothing I would like better than additional talking in the Senate.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

I'd like better schools for our children.

The New Yorker

"There's nothing we'd like better to see there".

The New York Times

The way he's looking at us, there's nothing he'd like better than to cut off our heads.

The Guardian

I'd like better work experience opportunities, centres which can teach people how to use money wisely, and more outdoor activities for all ages.

The Guardian

Now I used to judge candidates on which one I'd like better if I could have a beer with them.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider if a more direct verb, like "prefer" or "desire", might be more appropriate depending on the level of formality required.

Common error

While acceptable, "would like better" can sometimes sound less direct in formal writing. In such cases, stronger verbs like "require", "recommend", or "request" might be more effective for conveying your needs or expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "would like better" functions as a verbal phrase expressing a desire or preference for an improved version of something. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "would like better" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey a desire for improvement or preference. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It’s frequently found in news, media, science, and formal business contexts. When using "would like better", it's essential to provide sufficient context to clearly articulate the desired improvements and to consider the level of formality required, opting for stronger verbs in more formal settings. Alternative phrases, such as "would prefer" or "desire a better", can be used to refine the expression based on the specific nuances you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would prefer

Uses a more direct verb to express preference.

desire a better

Employs a more formal verb to indicate wanting something superior.

would appreciate a better

Highlights the grateful reception of something improved.

would welcome improved

Focuses on the positive reception of enhancements.

seek improved

Emphasizes the active pursuit of enhancements.

wish for a superior

Expresses a longing for something of higher quality.

hope for a better

Indicates an optimistic expectation of improvement.

favor a better

Suggests a preference for an enhanced version.

yearn for a superior

Conveys a deep longing for something better.

crave enhanced

Implies a strong desire for something improved.

FAQs

How can I use "would like better" in a sentence?

Use "would like better" to express a preference for something improved or of higher quality. For example, "I "would like better" communication from the team".

What's a more formal alternative to "would like better"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "would prefer", "require", or "recommend" for a more direct and professional tone.

Is "would like better" grammatically correct?

Yes, "would like better" is grammatically correct and commonly used to express a desire for improvement. However, ensure the context is appropriate for its level of formality.

What's the difference between "would like better" and "would prefer"?

"Would like better" expresses a general desire for improvement, while "would prefer" indicates a specific preference between options. For example, "I "would like better" service" versus "I would prefer tea over coffee".