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Preferred Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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preferred

[prɪˈfɜːrd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a particular order

Liked, wanted, or chosen above all others.

Synonyms

chosen, desired, favorite.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
preferred

Used when indicating a choice or option that is more appealing or suitable compared to others.

  • I have a preferred method for solving this problem.
  • Her preferred mode of transportation is the train.
favorite

Used to describe something or someone that is liked the most compared to others.

  • Pizza is my favorite food.
  • That movie is her all-time favorite.
chosen

Used when a selection has already been made. It often emphasizes the action of selecting.

  • He was the chosen candidate for the job.
  • They have chosen a beautiful location for their wedding.
desired

Used when referring to something that someone wants or wishes for. It has a stronger emotional connotation.

  • She has always desired to travel the world.
  • The desired outcome of the experiment was successfully achieved.

Examples of usage

  • He showed a preferred style of playing.
  • She had a preferred brand of clothing.
  • They chose the preferred option for the project.
Context #2 | Verb

to like better or best

To like better or best; to choose or favor above others.

Synonyms

choose, favor, opt for.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
preferred

Used to indicate a more favored option or choice among others, often in a personal or subjective manner.

  • She preferred tea over coffee
  • This is my preferred way of doing things
favor

Indicates a preference for one option over others, often implying a level of support or bias. It can also be used to describe personal bias or influence.

  • The professor seems to favor students who participate more in class
  • We favor a proactive approach
choose

Typically used in situations where a decision is required between multiple options. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • Choose your words wisely
  • Did you choose a place for dinner?
opt for

Used when making a choice, often suggesting a thoughtful or deliberate decision between alternatives. It's commonly used in formal or written language.

  • She opted for the vegetarian option
  • He opted for a career in engineering rather than medicine

Examples of usage

  • He preferred to stay home rather than go out.
  • She prefers tea over coffee.
  • They preferred the blue car over the red one.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies in psychology show that people often exhibit a 'preference effect', where initial choices strongly influence later decisions.
  • People tend to prefer familiar options due to the 'mere exposure effect', meaning the more we see something, the more we might like it.
  • Preferences can be shaped by emotional experiences, showing that feelings and memories play a significant role in what we like.

Cultural Insights

  • Different cultures express preferences uniquely, with some emphasizing collectivism while others focus on individual preferences, shaping choices.
  • In many cultures, 'preferred' options result from social norms or traditions, demonstrating how community values can influence personal likes.
  • Food preferences can vary widely across cultures, with certain ingredients or dishes considered 'preferred' based on regional traditions.

Pop Culture

  • In music and film, a 'preferred genre' significantly influences audiences' entertainment choices, shaping the industry.
  • Fashion choices often highlight 'preferred' styles that change with trends, showcasing individual personalities and collective societal shifts.
  • Many surveys and social media trends showcase preferred items, revealing public sentiment and popular choices among different demographics.

Educational Context

  • In educational settings, students may express preferred learning styles, which can range from visual to auditory to kinesthetic.
  • Teachers often aim to identify students' preferred learning methods to enhance engagement and understanding in the classroom.
  • Research indicates that tailoring lessons to cater to preferred styles can improve motivation and retention in students.

Origin of 'preferred'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'praeferre', meaning 'to carry before' or 'to value more highly'.
  • It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, evolving in usage related to choices and values.
  • Related words include 'preference', which emphasizes the value of being chosen over other options.

The word 'preferred' originated from the Middle English word 'preferren', which came from the Old French word 'preferer', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'praeferre', meaning 'to set before'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century.

See also: prefer, preferably, preference, preferences, preferring.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,402, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.