Preferable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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preferable
[prəˈfɜrəbəl ]
Definition
desired choice
Preferable refers to something that is more favorable or desirable compared to others. It indicates a choice or option that is preferred over others due to certain qualities or characteristics.
Synonyms
advantageous, better, desirable, more suitable.
Examples of usage
- This option is preferable for our project.
- A smaller car is preferable for city driving.
- It's preferable to start early rather than late.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Understanding what is preferable often relates to individual experiences and emotional states.
- Research shows that familiarity increases preference; people tend to choose what they know.
- Cognitive biases like the 'status quo' bias influence our liking for what is considered preferable.
Decision Making
- In decision-making processes, establishing what is preferable helps simplify choices.
- Pros and cons lists are common tools for evaluating what option is preferable.
- In business, understanding consumer preferences can determine what products are more successful.
Cultural Perspectives
- Cultural values often shape what groups consider preferable, impacting social norms.
- In different cultures, what is seen as preferable can vary significantly; for example, certain foods or behaviors.
- Many societies have traditional practices that dictate what is more preferable within their community.
Everyday Usage
- People often express preferences in casual conversations, using language to convey what they like.
- The word is commonly used in customer service, where knowing what is preferable helps tailor experiences.
- In fashion and art, artists frequently explore themes of what is considered preferable in aesthetics.
Origin of 'preferable'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Latin 'praeferre', which means 'to carry before'.
- The prefix 'pre-' represents 'before', indicating a choice made in advance.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, showing preferences in discussions.
The term 'preferable' is derived from the Latin word 'praeferre,' which means 'to carry before' or 'to prefer.' The word made its way into the English language around the 15th century, initially appearing as 'preferabble' before evolving into its current form. The prefix 'pre-' denoting 'before' and 'ferre' meaning 'to bear or carry' reflects the notion of prioritizing one option over another. Thus, 'preferable' essentially communicates a sense of priority in choice. Over the centuries, the usage of 'preferable' has expanded beyond mere preference to encompass ideas of suitability, appropriateness, and desirability in various contexts, especially in decision-making scenarios.