1
as in to like
to show partiality toward
I generally prefer chocolate ice cream over vanilla
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to choose
to decide to accept (someone or something) from a group of possibilities
most buyers of that vehicle have preferred the model with four-wheel drive
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of prefer
Some prefer the sweetness of a little extra sugar or additions of spices like cardamom and cinnamon, while others crave the jolt and natural bitterness of a black, unfiltered pour.
—
Samantha Husted, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 2025
Notably, this fungus prefers dry climates as opposed to humid ones more typical for mold, posing a potentially immense issue for artworks and artifacts, which are specifically maintained in similar environments.
—Francesca Aton For Artnews, Robb Report, 12 May 2025
People who prefer in-person communication may not get the most out of a service like BetterHelp.
—Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 12 May 2025
Of course, the Celtics would have preferred to enter Saturday with a second-round series lead.
—Jay King, New York Times, 11 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Samantha Husted, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 2025
Notably, this fungus prefers dry climates as opposed to humid ones more typical for mold, posing a potentially immense issue for artworks and artifacts, which are specifically maintained in similar environments.
—Francesca Aton For Artnews, Robb Report, 12 May 2025
People who prefer in-person communication may not get the most out of a service like BetterHelp.
—Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 12 May 2025
Of course, the Celtics would have preferred to enter Saturday with a second-round series lead.
—Jay King, New York Times, 11 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prefer
Verb
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That was followed by being too busy (17.8%), and not liking the candidates or campaign issues (14.7%).—
Karlyn Bowman,
Forbes.com,
12 May 2025
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But a horse who likes to hang behind and make a late push won’t want to get trapped against the railing.—
Sam Cohn,
Baltimore Sun,
12 May 2025
Verb
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The fact that the high court chose this case to discuss universal injunctions could mean a majority want to reaffirm their use, said Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University.—
Maureen Groppe,
USA Today,
12 May 2025
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After picking, vinification was gentle and at low temperatures for many producers, who also chose to steer clear of using excessive new oak for aging.—
Tom Mullen,
Forbes.com,
11 May 2025
Verb
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Visitors can also enjoy a dozen dining options with cuisine inspired by the region, 24 bars, Mariachi performances and shopping from local artisans, according to a news release.—
Nathan Diller,
USA Today,
15 May 2025
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There are oysters of various species available, and from Thursday to Sunday 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm, guests can enjoy a selection priced at $1.50, with gaufrettespotato chips, and a selection of red, white, rosé, and sparkling for $10 a glass.—
John Mariani,
Forbes.com,
15 May 2025
Verb
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Who did the Chicago Bears select in the 2025 NFL draft?—
Brad Biggs,
Chicago Tribune,
14 May 2025
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Travis Hunter's Week 1 Opponent One of the biggest storylines of the NFL draft was the Jacksonville Jaguars trading up to select Travis Hunter, a WR/CB hybrid, second overall.—
Seth Quinn,
MSNBC Newsweek,
14 May 2025
Verb
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Dhillon mused in the letter about whether Johnson’s administration was showing a pattern of favoring Black candidates in employment decisions.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
21 May 2025
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Investments favored trains serving white suburbs over buses used by Black and low-income riders.—
Deborah N. Archer,
Time,
21 May 2025
Verb
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Situations like, how to thread the needle between multiple dietary restrictions, or how to pick a menu that can be made days in advance so hosts can save their energy for the party itself.—
Bon Appétit,
Bon Appetit Magazine,
21 May 2025
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Then Tavares basically spent all seven years refusing to pick a lane.—
Sean McIndoe,
New York Times,
21 May 2025
Verb
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One month later, the bank reopened the second round for bidders, and Earle and her husband wanted to visit the house again.—
Meredith Wilshere,
People.com,
19 May 2025
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But what Ellie really wants is adult responsibilities.—
Keith Phipps,
Vulture,
19 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Prefer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prefer. Accessed 24 May. 2025.
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