Synonyms of preferably

preferably

adverb

ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-blē 

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

• rather
• willingly
• readily
• soon
• first
• either
• instead
• alternatively
• alternately
• optionally
• fain
• desirably
• voluntarily
• gladly
• electively
• wishfully
• obligingly

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• involuntarily
• reluctantly
• unwillingly
• forcibly
• willy-nilly

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of preferably

Adults ages 65 and older should preferably receive a flu vaccine designed to produce a stronger immune response, such as a high-dose or adjuvanted vaccine, when available. — Ava Tsapatsaris, ABC News, 2 Sep. 2026

Ornamental Grasses Tall ornamental grasses, preferably native ones such as switchgrass, create a focal point in your landscape and mimic the movement and sound of a water feature. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 29 Aug. 2026

Store firewood neatly, preferably elevated and away from the house, and clear clutter that could shelter rodents. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 19 Aug. 2026

The filling sets in the fridge for at least four hours, but preferably overnight. — Jesse Szewczyk, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 Aug. 2026