PREFERABLY Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

preferably

adverb

ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-blē

Definition of preferably next

as in rather

by choice or preference I like football, but preferably watching from the stands rather than being down on the field

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of preferably Prepare the planting site, which should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight, preferably morning sun. —

Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 26 Feb. 2026 Does the area receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day, preferably in the afternoon rather than the morning? —

Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 25 Feb. 2026 As the weather warms up, consider investing in a few high-quality tees, preferably 100% cotton options that’ll wash and age best. —

India Roby, Glamour, 24 Feb. 2026 Late-night snacking on juicy, carby food—preferably while standing barefoot in the refrigerator light—is one of those universally blissful life moments. —

Julia Sullivan, Outside, 24 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for preferably

Recent Examples of Synonyms for preferably

Adverb

In other words, the sun may not have arrived in a life-friendly environment purely by chance, but rather as a consequence of the formation of the galactic bar.

— Charles Q. Choi, Space.com, 12 Mar. 2026
The reason the rap got the thumbs up from the crew was not just due to the freestyle stylings of the burgeoning MC, but rather a matter of practicing what everyone had been preaching.

— Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Mar. 2026