verb
prefer
prih-FUR/prɪˈfɜːr/
To like or choose one option more than another.
She prefers the peach to the offered apples.
Etymology
To “carry in front” became to place something before other things in esteem. When you prefer one option, you figuratively put it ahead of its alternatives.
In context
A QUESTION? THROUGH THE CHAIR? --MAYOR. >> YES. >> IS THIS FUNDING FOR ANOTHER ENTITY? FOR EXAMPLE, WE MAY HAVE LEGAL AID OR THIS TO HAVE SOMEBODY IN-HOUSE? >> I PREFER CONTRACTING OUTSIDE OF THE CITY.
More examples
- He preferred a quieter room.
- They have always preferred traveling by train.
- I prefer to finish the work before lunch.
Forms
prefer · prefers · preferred · preferring
preference noun — A stronger liking for one option.