Preferably: meaning, definitions and examples

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preferably

[ˈprɛfərəbli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a preferred or desirable manner

Preferably is used to indicate that one option is more desirable or preferable than others. It is often used when expressing a preference or choice.

Synonyms

ideally, optimally, rather, sooner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preferably	Used when expressing a situation or condition that is more desirable. Students should, preferably, submit their assignments a day early. For this recipe, use fresh herbs, preferably basil.
ideally	Used when describing the best or most suitable situation or condition. Ideally, the project should be completed by the end of the month. He is ideally suited for the role.
optimally	Used to describe a situation where conditions are used to their best advantage. The machine must be set up to run optimally. For the system to work optimally, all components must be properly calibrated.
sooner	Used to indicate a preference for an earlier time, or to suggest that something should be done quickly. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if implying urgency or impatience. I would sooner leave than wait for another hour. Sooner or later, you will have to make a decision.
rather	Used to indicate a preference or alternative that is slightly different. Often used to soften statements. I would rather stay home tonight. She decided to take the bus rather than walk.

Examples of usage

I would preferably go for a walk in the park than watch TV.
Preferably, we should finish the project by the end of the week.
She would preferably have a cup of tea rather than coffee in the morning.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

according to what is likely or expected

Preferably can also be used to indicate what is likely or expected to happen in a given situation.

Synonyms

expectedly, likely, probably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preferably	Use this word when expressing a preference for one option over another. It's often used to indicate the most desired choice from a set of alternatives. You should go to the market in the morning, preferably before 8 AM We need to finish this project quickly, preferably by the end of the week
expectedly	This word is used when something happens as anticipated or predicted. It emphasizes that the outcome aligns with what was foreseen. Expectedly, the team finished the task just in time Expectedly, the rainy season brought a lot of precipitation
likely	Use this word to indicate that something has a high probability of happening. It expresses a strong possibility. It's likely to rain tomorrow She is likely to get the promotion due to her hard work
probably	This word is used when expressing a moderate degree of certainty about an event or outcome. It falls between certainty and possibility. I will probably go to the party This software update will probably fix the bug

Examples of usage

Preferably, the meeting will start on time.
The package should arrive preferably by tomorrow.
He will preferably be at the conference by noon.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word 'praeferre' meaning 'to carry before' or 'to prefer'.
The evolution of the word passed through Old French before settling in English around the late 14th century.
It combines 'prefer' with the suffix '-ably', indicating a manner of choosing.

Usage in Language

Often used in formal contexts to indicate choice, such as 'I would preferably like coffee in the morning.'
It can also express politeness or softness in requests like 'I would preferably prefer if you called me later.'
Commonly found in comparative sentences to highlight desired options, such as 'I would preferably travel by train.'

Psychology

Understanding preferences can reveal underlying values and beliefs in decision-making.
Research shows that people tend to favor options that offer more emotional satisfaction.
The concept of preference is crucial in behavioral economics, as it influences consumer choices.

Cultural Insight

In some cultures, expressing preferences directly is seen as assertive; in others, it may come across as rude.
Preferred options can vary significantly based on cultural norms, such as food and hospitality.
Social dynamics often shape what is deemed preferable in various communities and settings.

Literature

The word often appears in literary works to convey characters' choices, enriching themes of desire and longing.
Literary scholars analyze preference to understand character motivations and conflicts.
In poetry, the term can reflect the contrasts between desire and reality, enhancing emotional depth.

Translations

Translations of the word "preferably" in other languages:

🇵🇹 preferencialmente

🇮🇳 अधिमानतः

🇩🇪 vorzugsweise

🇮🇩 sebaiknya

🇺🇦 бажано

🇵🇱 najlepiej

🇯🇵 できれば

🇫🇷 de préférence

🇪🇸 preferiblemente

🇹🇷 tercihen

🇰🇷 가급적이면

🇸🇦 يفضل

🇨🇿 nejlépe

🇸🇰 najlepšie

🇨🇳 最好

🇸🇮 najraje

🇮🇸 helst

🇰🇿 жақсырақ

🇬🇪 სასურველია

🇦🇿 üstünlükle

🇲🇽 preferentemente

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,471 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
7468 hesitation
7469 vanished
7470 treats
7471 preferably
7472 secondly
7473 bullet
7474 yarn
...