preferable

adjective

pref·​er·​a·​ble ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-bəl 

ˈpre-fər-bəl,

 also  pri-ˈfər-ə-bəl

: having greater value or desirability : being preferred

preferability

ˌpre-f(ə-)rə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

Examples of preferable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As far as material goes, here are the three common options—listed from most to least preferable, by our sommelier panel. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Aug. 2025

But the de facto ceding of territory temporarily is preferable to the de jure handing over of land permanently. —Michael McFaul, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2025

The European leaders did not address whether a peace deal was preferable to a ceasefire. —Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 16 Aug. 2025

While forgoing alcohol consumption altogether is preferable, the groups found that men should limit their intake to no more than two drinks per day, while women should limit their intake to no more than one per day. —Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1666, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for preferable

• referable

Kids Definition

preferable

adjective

pref·​er·​a·​ble ˈpref-(ə-)rə-bəl 

ˈpref-ər-bəl

: worthy to be preferred : more desirable

preferability

ˌpref-(ə-)rə-ˈbil-ət-ē 

noun

preferably

ˈpref-(ə-)rə-blē 

ˈpref-ər-

adverb