Prefer: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when expressing a greater liking for one alternative over another. It suggests a strong inclination without any overt action.

• I prefer tea over coffee.
• She prefers reading books to watching movies.

Used when making a decision between two or more options. It often implies an action has been taken to make the decision.

• He will choose the best route for the trip.
• You need to choose between staying or leaving.

Implies a partiality or bias towards something, often because of personal preference. Can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation if the bias is unfair.

• The judge seemed to favor the defendant.
• She favors vanilla ice cream over chocolate.

Use when indicating a choice or preference among multiple options, often after some consideration.

• They decided to opt for a smaller car.
• He opted for the vegetarian meal.

Use when choosing something based on specific criteria or standards. Often implies a careful and deliberate choice.

• The committee will select the candidates next week.
• She was selected for the lead role in the play.

Used when you have a stronger liking for one option over another. It's often used in formal writing or conversation.

• I prefer tea over coffee in the morning.
• She prefers reading books to watching movies.

A more informal and conversational way to express preference. It's straightforward and easy to understand.

• I like better spending my weekends in nature.
• She likes better the new restaurant over the old one.

This is the British English spelling of 'favor' and has the same usage and connotations. It can be used in British formal contexts.

• The policy seems to favour large corporations.
• In British literature, authors often favour complex sentences.

Used when one option brings you more pleasure or satisfaction than another. Suitable for informal conversations or casual writing.

• I enjoy more going to the beach than staying at home.
• He enjoys more playing soccer than studying.

Often used in formal contexts, 'favor' implies preference or partiality, sometimes suggesting a bias. Can also have a legal or political connotation.

• The judge should not favor any side in the lawsuit.
• The coach favors experienced players over newcomers.

Use when expressing a liking for one option over another in a general sense.

• I prefer coffee over tea.
• Do you prefer summer or winter holidays?

Use when arranging actions or tasks in order of importance, especially in a work or project context.

• You need to prioritize your tasks for the day.
• The manager prioritized the project deadlines.

Use when indicating that one option is more important than others and should be prioritized. Often used in formal contexts.

• We give precedence to urgent matters in our meetings.
• The company gives precedence to safety over profit.

Use when indicating a bias or support for one option over others. It can have a slight negative connotation if it implies unfair bias.

• The coach seems to favor the experienced players.
• In decision-making, try not to favor your friends.

Use when making a decision or selection among multiple options.

• You need to choose a movie for tonight.
• She chose the blue dress for the party.