1
as in to like
to show partiality toward
I generally prefer chocolate ice cream over vanilla
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to choose
to decide to accept (someone or something) from a group of possibilities
most buyers of that vehicle have preferred the model with four-wheel drive
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of prefer
Some prefer the sweetness of a little extra sugar or additions of spices like cardamom and cinnamon, while others crave the jolt and natural bitterness of a black, unfiltered pour.
—
Samantha Husted, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 2025
Notably, this fungus prefers dry climates as opposed to humid ones more typical for mold, posing a potentially immense issue for artworks and artifacts, which are specifically maintained in similar environments.
—Francesca Aton For Artnews, Robb Report, 12 May 2025
People who prefer in-person communication may not get the most out of a service like BetterHelp.
—Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 12 May 2025
Of course, the Celtics would have preferred to enter Saturday with a second-round series lead.
—Jay King, New York Times, 11 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Samantha Husted, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 2025
Notably, this fungus prefers dry climates as opposed to humid ones more typical for mold, posing a potentially immense issue for artworks and artifacts, which are specifically maintained in similar environments.
—Francesca Aton For Artnews, Robb Report, 12 May 2025
People who prefer in-person communication may not get the most out of a service like BetterHelp.
—Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 12 May 2025
Of course, the Celtics would have preferred to enter Saturday with a second-round series lead.
—Jay King, New York Times, 11 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prefer
Verb
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But with Ingram, Barnes, Barrett and Quickley, there are many players who already like to play with the ball in their hands.—
Sam Vecenie,
New York Times,
12 May 2025
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But a horse who likes to hang behind and make a late push won’t want to get trapped against the railing.—
Sam Cohn,
Baltimore Sun,
12 May 2025
Verb
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The fact that the high court chose this case to discuss universal injunctions could mean a majority want to reaffirm their use, said Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University.—
Maureen Groppe,
USA Today,
12 May 2025
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The pageant continues Sunday at 1 p.m., at which time a new Miss Maine will be chosen to advance to the Miss USA pageant.—
Steve Buckley,
New York Times,
11 May 2025
Verb
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Visitors can also enjoy a dozen dining options with cuisine inspired by the region, 24 bars, Mariachi performances and shopping from local artisans, according to a news release.—
Nathan Diller,
USA Today,
15 May 2025
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Guests can enjoy performances by DJ Quicksilva, DJ Flow, DJ P Drama, DJ Supream, and The Bearded Drummer while taking in the races from a luxury vantage point.—
Kimberly Wilson,
Essence,
15 May 2025
Verb
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An international jury, appointed by both the Marché du Film and the CTA, will select the winning entries.—
Scott Roxborough,
HollywoodReporter,
14 May 2025
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Who did the Chicago Bears select in the 2025 NFL draft?—
Brad Biggs,
Chicago Tribune,
14 May 2025
Verb
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Foster has long favored playing wounded, sometimes feral characters whose violent tempers and outsized personalities have shone through the actor’s own imposing physical presence.—
Manuel Betancourt,
Variety,
9 May 2025
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These types of clever retorts seem to favor the male side of my family.—
Elana Rabinowitz,
Chicago Tribune,
9 May 2025
Verb
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The Costas’ method for picking a retirement spot was distinctly personal.—
William P. Barrett,
Forbes.com,
9 May 2025
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Maresca has many difficult decisions to make when picking his starting XI for the final against Real Betis, but neither should be seen as risky selections.—
Liam Twomey,
New York Times,
9 May 2025
Verb
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One month later, the bank reopened the second round for bidders, and Earle and her husband wanted to visit the house again.—
Meredith Wilshere,
People.com,
19 May 2025
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But what Ellie really wants is adult responsibilities.—
Keith Phipps,
Vulture,
19 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Prefer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prefer. Accessed 22 May. 2025.
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