prefer

verb

pre·​fer pri-ˈfər 

preferred; preferring

transitive verb

1

: to promote or advance to a rank or position

2

: to like better or best

prefers sports to reading

prefers to watch TV

3

: to give (a creditor) priority

4

archaic : to put or set forward or before someone : recommend

5

: to bring or lay against someone

won't prefer charges

6

: to bring forward or lay before one for consideration

preferrer noun

Synonyms

• care (for)
• favor
• lean (toward or towards)
• like

Examples of prefer in a Sentence

Some people like vanilla ice cream, but I prefer chocolate.

She tends to prefer small college campuses.

I prefer this dictionary because of its helpful examples.

Which one is the preferred alternative?

What is the preferred pronunciation of her name?

Recent Examples on the Web

For those who prefer something not so strong, Rep. Rachel Hood, D-Grand Rapids, lists an interest in City Built Brewing Co. among her assets. —Paul Egan, Detroit Free Press, 20 Apr. 2024

Fans seemed to prefer the lighter, bouncier feel of the second album. —Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 19 Apr. 2024

Its rounded tip allows for direct clitoral stimulation, which can feel amazing to anyone who prefers that targeted pressure. —Amanda Chatel, Glamour, 19 Apr. 2024

For this reason, pediatricians in particular no longer recommend the BRAT diet for kids, preferring a more balanced diet. —Stephen C. George, Discover Magazine, 18 Apr. 2024

Moreover, latex is an excellent option for anyone with back pain and those who prefer natural materials. —Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2024

And then there is a group that prefers not to refer to the case at all. —Jess Bidgood, New York Times, 17 Apr. 2024

First-time, inexperienced campers, the elderly, and families might prefer to stay at the High Sierra Camps because of the amenities. —Jireh Deng, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2024

As a fan of rich, dark fruit, my personal favorite is the juicy Black Currant seltzer, but those who prefer something citrusy should try the delightfully tart Ruby Grapefruit, both made with 5 mg THC and 10 mg CBD. —Chala June, Bon Appétit, 17 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English preferren, from Anglo-French preferrer, from Latin praeferre to put before, prefer, from prae- + ferre to carry — more at bear

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

prefer

verb

pre·​fer pri-ˈfər 

preferred; preferring

1

: to choose or like better than another

prefer dark clothes

2

: to present for action or consideration

prefer charges against a thief

Legal Definition

prefer

transitive verb

pre·​fer pri-ˈfər 

preferred; preferring

1

: to give (a creditor or debt) priority or preference

any preferred charges such as child support or alimony

—In re Smiley, 427 P.2d 179 (1967)

2

: to bring forward for determination

especially : to bring (a charge) against someone

the various means by which a grand jury might prefer charges

—State v. Byrd, 399 S.E.2d 267 (1990)