to prefer

USAGE SUMMARY

"to prefer" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used to express preference for one thing over another. For example, "I prefer a sweet dessert over a savory one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I happen to prefer an eclectic aesthetic.

The New York Times

Both just happen to prefer No. 5.

The New York Times - Sports

(Affluent whites seem to prefer S.U.V.s).

The New Yorker

Some authors seem to prefer exile.

The New Yorker

They tend to prefer longer-term measures.

The Economist

He seems to prefer the exotics.

The New Yorker

And jumpers seem to prefer the regulations.

The New York Times

She started to prefer leggings.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Residents seem to prefer it that way.

The New York Times

He seems to prefer the high road.

The New York Times

(The men tend to prefer stone carving).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to prefer" to clearly indicate a choice or inclination between two or more options. Ensure the context makes the comparison clear.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions after "prefer". While "prefer... than" is sometimes used, it's generally considered incorrect. Use "prefer... to" or "prefer... over" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to prefer" functions as an infinitive verb phrase, typically used to express a choice or inclination towards one thing over another. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from personal preferences to professional decisions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the infinitive phrase "to prefer" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express a choice or inclination. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and utilized across various contexts, from personal preferences to professional decisions. It's crucial to use the correct preposition ("to" or "over") and to ensure clarity in the comparison being made. With its frequent presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and academic journals, mastering the use of "to prefer" will undoubtedly enhance your writing and communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to favor

Implies a slightly stronger inclination or approval than "to prefer".

to have a preference for

A more formal way of expressing a liking or inclination.

to lean towards

Suggests a tendency or inclination without a definitive choice.

to opt for

Emphasizes the act of making a choice or decision.

to be partial to

Suggests a fondness or liking for something specific.

to be more keen on

Expresses a stronger level of interest or enthusiasm.

to gravitate towards

Indicates a natural attraction or movement toward something.

to be inclined to

Expresses a predisposition or tendency towards something.

to select

Focuses on the act of choosing rather than the feeling of preference.

to have a soft spot for

Implies a tender or affectionate liking.

FAQs

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

You can use "to prefer" to express a choice between two or more options. For example, "I "to prefer" tea to coffee" or "She "to prefer" reading over watching television".

What is a more formal way to say "to prefer"?

More formal alternatives include "to have a preference for", "to favor", or "to be inclined to". For example, "The committee "to prefer" a written settlement" could be stated as "The committee has a preference for a written settlement".

Is it correct to say "prefer... than"?

While some may use "prefer... than", it's generally considered grammatically incorrect. The correct constructions are "prefer... to" or "prefer...over".

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

"To like" indicates a general positive feeling, while ""to prefer"" implies a choice or stronger inclination towards one thing over another. You might like both cats and dogs, but "to prefer" dogs because you enjoy their active nature.