preferred that

USAGE SUMMARY

"preferred that" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is wanted or desired. For example, "I preferred that my daughter attended the same school that I did."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

She said she preferred that approach.

The New York Times

workers preferred that arrangement because it gave them more freedom.

The New York Times

"He would have preferred that.

The New Yorker

I preferred that.

The New York Times - Tech

"I have ever since preferred that accommodation".

The New Yorker

In 1969, Gallup found that 18% preferred that option.

The Guardian

I'd've preferred that Mr. Robb'd used more conventional prose.

The New York Times - Books

She preferred that men admire her for her intellect.

The New Yorker

She preferred that Kargbo live in her house.

The New Yorker

But Danny preferred that they not open the apartment's windows.

The New Yorker

We lived a different life and I preferred that".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preferred that" to clearly express a past choice or desire. For example, "She preferred that the meeting be held in the morning."

Common error

Avoid using "prefer that" when referring to a past preference. "Preferred that" is the correct past tense form. For example, instead of "He prefer that she stay", use "He preferred that she stay."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preferred that" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past choice or inclination. It's used to express a preference for a specific action or state of affairs, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preferred that" is a versatile phrase for expressing a past preference or choice. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "would have favored that" and "would have liked that better" offer subtle shifts in meaning, it's crucial to maintain the correct tense and avoid common errors such as using "prefer that" when referring to a past event. The phrase's adaptability and prevalence make it a valuable tool in expressing nuanced preferences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a preference for that

States a general liking or inclination without necessarily taking action.

would have liked that better

Indicates a comparison and a preference for one option over another.

would rather have had that

Expresses a stronger degree of preference, often implying disappointment with the actual outcome.

would have favored that

Emphasizes a hypothetical preference that was not necessarily acted upon.

would have chosen that

Highlights the selection aspect, implying an active decision-making process.

would have leaned towards that

Suggests a tendency or inclination towards a specific option.

would have desired that

Focuses on the wish or longing for something, rather than a practical choice.

felt that it would be better if

Introduces a subjective judgment about the superiority of an option.

favored the idea that

Focuses on supporting or approving a particular concept or plan.

was inclined to think that

Indicates a mental leaning or predisposition towards a certain belief or course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "preferred that" in a sentence?

You can use "preferred that" to express a past choice or desire. For instance, "I "preferred that" she call me before visiting" indicates a prior choice.

What is a more formal alternative to "preferred that"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "would have favored that" or "would have desired that". These options add a layer of sophistication to your expression.

Is it correct to say "prefer that" instead of "preferred that" when talking about the past?

No, using "prefer that" to discuss a past event is grammatically incorrect. The correct past tense form is ""preferred that"".

What's the difference between "preferred that" and "would have preferred that"?

"Preferred that" indicates a definitive past choice, while "would have preferred that" suggests a hypothetical or unfulfilled preference.