prefer to write

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prefer to write" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a personal choice or inclination towards writing as a preferred method of communication or expression. Example: "I prefer to write my thoughts down rather than speak them out loud."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Which tense do you prefer to write in?

The Guardian

I'd prefer to write my own pop tune from scratch.

The Guardian - Music

After first hiring a ghostwriter, Romney then decided that he would prefer to write it himself.

The New York Times - Magazine

Do you prefer to write while travelling or while at home?

The New Yorker

"Sometimes it makes me want to cry, but I prefer to write".

The New Yorker

_Do you prefer to write while travelling or while at home? _ I think while at home.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

His political writings became perfunctory; he preferred to write thrillers (and pieces about sailing for The New Yorker).

The New Yorker

Horace refused, preferring to write poetry rather than imperial letters.

Independent

President Clinton, by contrast, prefers to write longhand.

The New York Times

Byatt has never "completely mastered the rhythms of computer writing", preferring to write fiction by hand.

The Guardian - Books

But he preferred to write fiction, which he used to make broad points.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing preferences in writing, consider specifying the context (e.g., "I prefer to write in the morning" or "I prefer to write fiction over non-fiction") to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "prefer to write" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, more sophisticated alternatives like "favor the composition of" might be more appropriate in certain contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prefer to write" primarily functions as a verb phrase expressing a preference or inclination towards the act of writing. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which demonstrate its use in various contexts where individuals express their favored method or time for writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prefer to write" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to express a personal inclination toward writing. Ludwig provides numerous examples from varied sources, confirming its broad applicability. While versatile, consider the context to determine if a more formal or nuanced alternative is appropriate. According to Ludwig, the phrase is suitable for most situations, particularly in news, media, and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prefer writing

Shorter, gerund form emphasizing the activity itself as the preference.

opt to write

Indicates a conscious decision or choice to write, similar to preferring.

choose to write

Emphasizes the selection of writing as the preferred action.

would rather write

Indicates a higher degree of preference for writing compared to other options.

like to write

Expresses enjoyment or fondness for writing, implying a preference.

enjoy writing

Focuses on the pleasurable aspect of writing and choosing it.

tend to write

Suggests a natural inclination or habit of writing.

favor writing

Highlights a preference for the act of writing over other activities.

be inclined to write

Suggests a leaning or predisposition towards writing.

desire to write

Expresses a strong wish or longing to engage in writing.

FAQs

How can I use "prefer to write" in a sentence?

You can use "prefer to write" to express your inclination towards writing in various contexts. For example: "I "prefer to write" in the morning when my mind is fresh."

What's the difference between "prefer to write" and "like to write"?

"Prefer to write" indicates a stronger inclination or choice compared to "like to write", which simply suggests enjoyment or fondness.

Is it correct to say "preferred to write" instead of ""prefer to write""?

Yes, "preferred to write" is the past tense form and is correct when describing a past preference. "I "preferred to write" with a pen, but now I use a laptop."

What are some alternatives to ""prefer to write"" in academic writing?

In academic writing, consider more formal alternatives such as "opt to write", "choose to write", or "favor the composition of" depending on the specific context.