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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of preferably Vincent Kompany could use a new centre-back, preferably one who is left-footed. —

Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 29 May 2026 But another high-leverage arm — preferably a left-hander — seems likely. —

Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2026 Get into another room, preferably a windowless room, instead. —

Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 28 May 2026 Plant yours in rich, well-draining, and acidic soil—preferably near a tree to emulate their natural habitat. —

Nishaa Sharma, The Spruce, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for preferably

Recent Examples of Synonyms for preferably

Adverb

And using both words does not reveal that a person is ignorant but rather cosmopolitan.

— Kirk Bowman, The Conversation, 4 June 2026
While Kittle gets back up to full speed and rather relies so much again on running back Christian McCaffrey’s receiving ability, the 49ers added beyond Evans by signing Christian Kirk and drafting De’Zhaun Stribling.

— Cam Inman, Mercury News, 4 June 2026