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 of preferably

• rather
• 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

Villa are keen to sign a centre-forward to provide depth and, preferably, develop a young traditional No 9 under Emery’s coaching. —Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025

Because these conifers have relatively sharp needles, handle them with care, and preferably wear gloves. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Nov. 2025

Choose moonless nights between the last quarter moon and a few days after the new moon for the darkest skies, preferably using a light pollution map to improve the view — and don’t forget the weather forecast. —Jamie Carter, Space.com, 27 Nov. 2025

The dry brine works by seasoning the outside of the bird all over, then refrigerating it for at least 12 hours, and preferably a day or two. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 13 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above