preferably

adverb

pref·​er·​a·​bly ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-blē 

: by choice or preference

—used to indicate what is wanted or preferred

The work should be done soon, preferably by the end of the week.

Applicants should hold a college degree, preferably with teaching experience.

Water thoroughly during the coolest time of day (preferably early morning), then allow soil to dry completely … before watering again.

—Michael MacCaskey

Mound flour on a work surface (preferably wooden) and make a large well in center with your fingertips.

—Lynne Rossetto Kasper

Synonyms

• fain
• first
• rather
• readily
• soon
• willingly

Examples of preferably in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Other considerations include possible upgrades to a home’s main electrical service panel, mainly on older homes, and adequate positioning of a roof, preferably facing south, Keller said. —Russ Wiles, The Arizona Republic, 10 May 2024

How to Make Oleo-Saccharum Use a vegetable peeler to remove large strips of peel from an unwaxed (preferably organic) lemon, avoiding the pith (the white part of the lemon between the flesh and skin). —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 8 May 2024

Don’t ask, just arrive early and get started, preferably with bagels or doughnuts. —Marla Jo Fisher, Orange County Register, 7 May 2024

Bake on bottom rack of 425°F oven (preferably on a preheated baking stone) 12 to 15 minutes or until outer edge begins to brown. —Erin McDowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 May 2024

The job requires building relationships, preferably long-term with clients who will go back to the same agent for more than one home purchase or sale, so that often means being reachable and able to answer questions morning, noon and night. —Michael Schroeder, The Indianapolis Star, 6 May 2024

Because an increasing number of matches are made via online dating sites, write a profile and post it on a couple that cater to mature adults, preferably who live relatively close by. —Jeanne Phillips, The Mercury News, 5 May 2024

Brian Dutcher and his staff spent the last few days evaluating potential replacements, preferably someone with 3-point range and defensive versatility. —Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 May 2024

Best Restaurants Visitors looking to maximize their time in the parks should opt to order from quick-serve locations, preferably with mobile orders. —Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 1 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above