1
as in favorites
a person or thing that is preferred over others
my preference is soul music
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in likings
positive regard for something
a preference for cool weather
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in options
the power, right, or opportunity to choose
he was promised his preference when the time came to repaint his bedroom
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in promotions
a raising or a state of being raised to a higher rank or position
a long-sought preference to the position of naval commander
Synonyms & Similar Words
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 preferences
Ongoing scrutiny of candidates’ public behavior, coupled with potential debates and campaign events, will likely play a role in upcoming polls and voter preferences.
—
Jason Lemon, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2025
Whether made-to-measure couches, modular sectionals, or bespoke armchairs, custom furniture gives you infinite flexibility to adapt to your taste and the constraints of your space, personal preferences, and room layouts.
—Matt Emma, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
By analyzing behavioral data, Reformation can align inventory to local preferences while maintaining its small-batch production model with limited runs that can be replenished quickly to minimize overproduction and waste.
—Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2025
As Gen Z continues to grow its presence in the workforce, with projections estimating their numbers will triple to 51 million by 2030, their leadership preferences are beginning to shape the future of work.
—Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 6 Nov. 2025
Limón is known for having some of the country’s best beaches, with a spot to suit every beachgoer’s preferences.
—Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2025
Rather than shaming you for your preferences, Sohm will indulge your desires.
—Tori Latham, Robb Report, 6 Nov. 2025
For up to $60 per person, a date where a finished product, such as a candle, is created is interactive, creative, and a way to discover someone’s personal preferences.
—Essence, 5 Nov. 2025
Shopping apps that collect purchase history, payment preferences and home addresses.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 Nov. 2025
Jason Lemon, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2025
Whether made-to-measure couches, modular sectionals, or bespoke armchairs, custom furniture gives you infinite flexibility to adapt to your taste and the constraints of your space, personal preferences, and room layouts.
—Matt Emma, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
By analyzing behavioral data, Reformation can align inventory to local preferences while maintaining its small-batch production model with limited runs that can be replenished quickly to minimize overproduction and waste.
—Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2025
As Gen Z continues to grow its presence in the workforce, with projections estimating their numbers will triple to 51 million by 2030, their leadership preferences are beginning to shape the future of work.
—Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 6 Nov. 2025
Limón is known for having some of the country’s best beaches, with a spot to suit every beachgoer’s preferences.
—Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2025
Rather than shaming you for your preferences, Sohm will indulge your desires.
—Tori Latham, Robb Report, 6 Nov. 2025
For up to $60 per person, a date where a finished product, such as a candle, is created is interactive, creative, and a way to discover someone’s personal preferences.
—Essence, 5 Nov. 2025
Shopping apps that collect purchase history, payment preferences and home addresses.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for preferences
Noun
-
From favorites like collard greens and sweet potato casserole to updates on classics like potato salad and grits, these side dishes are like scooping up a bite of nostalgia.—
Patricia S York,
Southern Living,
9 Nov. 2025
-
This is a luxurious, Relais & Châteaux property where the swanky cocktail terrace, Espazio Oteiza, is one of my favorites for the jaw-dropping coastal views.—
Michelle Arellano Martin,
Travel + Leisure,
9 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
The interior designer’s Wayfair rug collection with Loloi includes so many options in neutral shades and subtle patterns that complement a variety of home styles, including modern, farmhouse, and traditional aesthetics.—
Rachel Trujillo,
PEOPLE,
7 Nov. 2025
-
Despite these real dangers, our law enforcement shows incredible restraint in exhausting all options before force is escalated.—
James Hill,
ABC News,
7 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
However, the marketing, promotions and affiliate relations for the shows will transition to SPT at the end of the 2025/2026 season.—
Michael Schneider,
Variety,
7 Nov. 2025
-
However, the marketing, promotions and affiliate relations for the shows will transition to Sony at the end of the 2025/2026 season and Sony will continue to manage brand integrations with international distribution rights to the shows moving to Sony from December 1, 2025.—
Peter White,
Deadline,
7 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
Boy, how horror appetites change in just three years.—
Declan Gallagher,
Entertainment Weekly,
31 Oct. 2025
-
The burros' appetites for native desert trees are endangering the long-term sustainability of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.—
John Leos,
AZCentral.com,
23 Oct. 2025
Noun
-
Those policy choices have contributed to declining aquifers and greater vulnerability when rainfall is insufficient.—
Amir Daftari,
MSNBC Newsweek,
10 Nov. 2025
-
People are acting entirely too entitled to information about each other's private reproductive choices.—
Elisabeth Sherman,
Parents,
10 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.—
Jackie Wattles,
CNN Money,
9 Nov. 2025
-
Initial ground tests began in 2022, and flight trials are expected later in the decade, reflecting Seoul’s intent to field a regional deterrent amid North Korea’s missile advancements.—
Kaif Shaikh,
Interesting Engineering,
7 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
While Burberry’s trench coats have a long list of loyal devotees, from the Duchess of Sussex to Emma Watson, The Row is a label that has defined celebrity style in recent years, as the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Zoë Kravitz tend to be cloaked in minimalist staples from the brand.—
Emma Spedding,
Vogue,
11 Nov. 2025
-
Her roles became less frequent during the 2000s and 2010s, appearing in the likes of The Agency in 2010, Extinction (2017), Invincible (2020) and last year co-starred in Sallywood, which examined director Xaque Gruber’s relationship with her.—
Jesse Whittock,
Deadline,
11 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Preferences.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preferences. Accessed 14 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share