1
as in to like
to show partiality toward
I generally prefer chocolate ice cream over vanilla
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to choose
to decide to accept (someone or something) from a group of possibilities
most buyers of that vehicle have preferred the model with four-wheel drive
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of prefer
While cash is preferred by many technicians, tipping in other forms is acceptable if the option exists.
—
Kaitlyn Yarborough,
Southern Living,
5 July 2026
Thermostat Considerations for Pets and Sitters Some people prefer to leave their pets at home under the care of a sitter rather than board them while on vacation.
—
Mary Cornetta,
Better Homes & Gardens,
5 July 2026
Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome, organizers said.
—
Aurora Beacon-News,
Chicago Tribune,
5 July 2026
Families traveling together may prefer the Superliner Family Room.
—
Abby Price,
Travel + Leisure,
4 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Kaitlyn Yarborough,
Southern Living,
5 July 2026
Thermostat Considerations for Pets and Sitters Some people prefer to leave their pets at home under the care of a sitter rather than board them while on vacation.
—
Mary Cornetta,
Better Homes & Gardens,
5 July 2026
Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome, organizers said.
—
Aurora Beacon-News,
Chicago Tribune,
5 July 2026
Families traveling together may prefer the Superliner Family Room.
—
Abby Price,
Travel + Leisure,
4 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prefer
Verb
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But Alonso also likes to offset the industrial nature of concrete with warmth.
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And that’s why Howard Zinn has sold 5 million copies, because teenagers sort of like to be in on something.
Verb
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The Kings chose to hold Emanuel Sharp, Adam Flagler and Jonathan Mogbo out of Monday’s game, but Acuff, Clifford and Cardwell returned to the lineup after sitting out Sunday’s win over Golden State.
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If an island getaway is favored, there are plenty of options across the globe to choose from, all with pristine beaches and seaside charm.
Verb
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Defense stocks have enjoyed a bumper year in 2026, as conflicts from Ukraine to Iran increase demand for munitions worldwide.
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With estimated sales totaling €32 billion and a growth rate between 4-6% for 2025, jewelry seems to be enjoying its brightest summer yet.
Verb
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Soto was the sole player selected to represent the Mets at the 96th edition of the Midsummer Classic, which will take place July 14 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
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Peninsula Family Service has been selected by the California Department of Education to assume operations of the Creative Montessori Learning Center in East Palo Alto, effective this month.
Verb
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If an island getaway is favored, there are plenty of options across the globe to choose from, all with pristine beaches and seaside charm.
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After Ecuador’s disappointing draw against Curaçao, against which it had been heavily favored, Hernandez reëvaluated his plans.
Verb
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The engaged couple from Orlando, Florida, pick a different city to visit each Fourth of July.
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Bellinger and Schlittler were selected by their fellow players, while Rice was picked by Major League Baseball.
Verb
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With potentially record-breaking heat coming to Washington, DC on the Fourth of July, people wanting to catch fireworks by saving an early spot on the National Mall will have a lot of waiting to do.
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And who wouldn’t want to stay a good long while here—especially to take maximum advantage of that 16,000-square-foot spa?
Cite this Entry
“Prefer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prefer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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