prefer
like better / favor / choose
Transitive Verb
past: preferredpp: preferreding: preferring
This word conveys a subjective choice based on personal taste or a strategic advantage. It implies a comparative judgment where one option is elevated above another, often suggesting a gentle or polite expression of desire rather than a demanding requirement. Grammatically, the word is most distinctively used with the preposition to rather than than when comparing two nouns or gerunds. Saying I prefer tea to coffee is the standard construction, whereas using than typically requires a full clause or the phrase would rather.
Meanings
Transitive Verb
[~ something to something][~ doing something to doing something]
To like one thing or person better than another.
"I prefer tea to coffee."
Transitive Verb
[~ to do something (rather than do something else)]
To choose a particular action or option over an alternative.
"I would prefer to stay home tonight."