preference

ˈpre-fərn(t)s
Definition of preferencenext
1
as in favorite
a person or thing that is preferred over others my preference is soul music

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun preference contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of preference are alternative, choice, election, option, and selection. While all these words mean "the act or opportunity of choosing or the thing chosen," preference suggests a choice guided by one's judgment or predilections.

a preference for cool weather

When is it sensible to use alternative instead of preference?

The words alternative and preference can be used in similar contexts, but alternative implies a need to choose one and reject another possibility.

equally attractive alternatives

In what contexts can choice take the place of preference?

The meanings of choice and preference largely overlap; however, choice suggests the opportunity or privilege of choosing freely.

freedom of choice

When is election a more appropriate choice than preference?

While in some cases nearly identical to preference, election implies an end or purpose which requires exercise of judgment.

doing a tax return forces certain elections on you

When can option be used instead of preference?

Although the words option and preference have much in common, option implies a power to choose that is specifically granted or guaranteed.

the option of paying now or later

When would selection be a good substitute for preference?

The words selection and preference are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, selection implies a range of choice.

a varied selection of furniture

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 preference The downtown area has also become a focal point for growth, reflecting changing buyer preferences toward walkability, mixed-use neighborhoods, and proximity to offices and cultural offerings. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 29 Jan. 2026 Although finding your favorite cut and fit comes down to personal preference, this one from Amazon has glowing praise. Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 29 Jan. 2026 Her personal preference leans slightly richer, in the direction of Sherwin-Williams’ Dried Thyme, a shade with enough depth to make a statement without sacrificing quietude. Marisa Suzanne Martin, The Spruce, 29 Jan. 2026 Participants self-identified their chronotype — their natural preference for sleep-wake timing — and were categorized as morning, intermediate or evening types. Lily Hautau, CNN Money, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for preference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for preference
Noun
  • Martindale was viewed, internally and around the league, as the favorite to replace Wilks from the moment Glenn started the interview process.
    Zack Rosenblatt, New York Times, 28 Jan. 2026
  • The restaurant has occupied the space for decades, sits steps from the ski lifts in Vail Village, and is a local favorite for skiers, tourists and locals alike.
    Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • But the job of the Federal Reserve‘s seven-member Board of Governors is not to pump the economy to any president’s liking.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 21 Jan. 2026
  • These joggers, made of polyester, rayon, and spandex, also feature a drawstring waistband to adjust to your liking.
    Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 20 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Take a cue from Nicole Kidman and swap bulky trainers for a sleeker option that styles effortlessly from the plane to wherever the day takes you.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Silver plans are a middle-tier option that the ACA marketplaces offer for qualifying consumers.
    David Lightman, Sacbee.com, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Following album promotions in the spring and a potential anniversary encore concert in the summer, the group may offer clearer signals about their future.
    Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Effective immediately, the policy will allow athletes of MHSAA-member schools to capitalize on NIL through individual opportunities such as endorsements and promotions, personal appearances, modeling and autograph signings.
    DeJanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Just because someone wrote something about your work and posted a picture of your book doesn’t mean that you’re required to give it a like or share it or even comment on it.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Jan. 2026
  • The man who has acted alongside the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Edward Norton, Denzel Washington, and Johnny Depp first got into acting at age 16 simply to get out of school.
    Mike Wehner, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • For a more specialized fit, the Petite Wide-leg Pants are an excellent choice for shorter shoppers, while the Curvy Wide-leg Pants are just as comfortable and flattering (and on sale for almost $40 off).
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026
  • This is evidence that color drenching is a more recent design choice and might not be timeless.
    Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • From initial hype to tangible industrial momentum, the 2025 China Apparel Industry AI Technology Application Summit emerged as a key battleground where fashion companies demonstrated their technological advancements.
    Li Jun, Footwear News, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Several new advancement opportunities for students Seventh and eighth grade students now have the opportunity to earn high school credits.
    Hope Moses, Chicago Tribune, 10 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Pace stressed that the appetite for collectible art and design continues to grow among Saint Moritz residents and visitors alike.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Pancreatic cancer's early symptoms include weight loss, light-colored stool or floating stools, dark-colored urine, itching, loss of appetite, belly pain that spreads from the sides to the back and yellowing of the skin and eyes, according to the Mayo Clinic.
    Sarah Sotoodeh, FOXNews.com, 28 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Preference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preference. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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