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 These distinct sauce styles are all rooted in traditions that developed in the coastal South, influenced by shifting populations, regional preferences, and supply chains. Amethyst Ganaway, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2026 As carbuyers' preferences have shifted, pricier vehicles have become the norm at dealerships, leaving budget-conscious shoppers with fewer affordable models to choose from. Mike Winters, CNBC, 1 July 2026 These preferences are redefining retirement as retirees prioritize this lifestyle. Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Each profile created with a dedicated email can now have its own language, audio, and display preferences, Cord Cutter News notes. Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for preference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for preference
Noun
  • The French men’s national team — one of the favorites to win the entire tournament — arrived with HACs, as well as bags from Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
    Teddy Brown, CNN Money, 30 June 2026
  • Another of her favorites is Henry Ford’s Model-T (Tin Lizzie), which revolutionized the auto industry.
    Sandra Guzmán, USA Today, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Trump has aggressively pushed for lower interest rates, repeatedly berating former Fed Chair Jerome Powell for not decreasing borrowing costs to the president’s liking.
    Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 30 June 2026
  • Add the greens and/or vegetables, in stages as necessary, and toss in the garlicky oil, then add the sauce and cook to your liking, stirring frequently.
    Emily Siner, NPR, 27 June 2026
Noun
  • With retail prices starting around $19,000 for entry models and climbing past $100,000 for advanced ones, rentals offer a more accessible option.
    John Liu, CNN Money, 30 June 2026
  • Shop the comfortable, chic outfit-polisher in five color options, plus more Italian leather flats under $100.
    Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • That’s exactly how Comber — now store director, after a promotion — has used it.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • Amron, Dane, Amanda and Alondra bring deep relationships and a modern understanding of the business, and Chinazam and Kashia have each earned these promotions through hard work and strong instincts.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • Try to get all of it, even though your potato may look a little moon-like.
    Aly Walansky, Southern Living, 29 June 2026
  • Brown interviewed over 1,000 guests, including civil rights leaders like Jesse Jackson, politicians including President Ronald Reagan, and celebs the likes of Denzel Washington.
    Terry Collins, USA Today, 28 June 2026
Noun
  • Miltos’ Greek Table at Andronis Luxury Suites is the Oia choice for travelers who want romance.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • Vic makes some baffling choices here, buzzing in twice on the first word in the series without hearing the rest, and getting eliminated from multiple rounds five seconds in.
    Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • The ratings draw on data from millions of actual workers, in postings on LinkedIn, Indeed and other sites that illustrate patterns in pay, retention and advancement.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 29 June 2026
  • Here is a list of the inventions and innovations, business advancements and manufacturing achievements our state pioneered in the past 250 years.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Symptoms of cyclosporiasis occur between two days and two weeks after exposure, and include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight, abdominal cramps and bloating, nausea and low-grade fever.
    Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026
  • Monroe County health officials say symptoms occur two to 14 days after exposure and include frequent watery diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight, cramps and bloating, nausea and low-grade fever.
    DeJanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 30 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Preference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preference. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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