Prefer

/prɪˈfɜːr/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To favor one thing over another; to like one thing more than another.

I prefer coffee to tea in the morning.

To choose or select something as being more desirable.

She prefers to read books instead of watching movies.

To give priority to something.

We prefer working on projects that have a positive impact.

To indicate a preference for one option over others.

He prefers to travel by train rather than by bus.

Middle English: from Old French 'preferer', from Latin 'praeferre', meaning 'to carry before'.

prefer to

Choose to do something.

prefer A over B

Favor option A more than option B.

would prefer

Indicate a stronger desire for something.

preference

A greater liking for one alternative over another.

preferable

More desirable or suitable than another.

I’m all about that.

I prefer the beach every time—I'm all about that sunshine!

Go with the flow.

When it comes to pizza toppings, I prefer whatever everyone else is having; I just like to go with the flow.