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
But Americans also prefer personalities, and in the fire and ice tandem of Dropkin and Thiesse, have finally found some.
—
Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
John Wayne Airport, known for its smaller footprint and easy access to coastal So-Cal communities, remains a favorite among travelers who prefer a calmer alternative to LAX.
—Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026
For design purists—the ones who prefer a blank canvas—Zara’s linen curtain is the one to beat.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 9 Feb. 2026
Some prefer it as a spectator sport.
—Noel Brennan, CBS News, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
John Wayne Airport, known for its smaller footprint and easy access to coastal So-Cal communities, remains a favorite among travelers who prefer a calmer alternative to LAX.
—Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026
For design purists—the ones who prefer a blank canvas—Zara’s linen curtain is the one to beat.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 9 Feb. 2026
Some prefer it as a spectator sport.
—Noel Brennan, CBS News, 9 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for prefer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prefer
Verb
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Feltner likes the direction the Rockies are headed under a new front office and pitching staff as camp opens.—
Patrick Saunders,
Denver Post,
12 Feb. 2026
-
Minnesota goodbye College hockey coaches generally don’t like to see their players leave school early for the professional ranks.—
Jess Myers,
Twin Cities,
11 Feb. 2026
Verb
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In an industry that has historically pushed Latin artists to translate themselves, soften their edges, or neutralize their identity to become global stars, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio chose the opposite.—
Rocio Munoz,
CNN Money,
7 Feb. 2026
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Bedding purists can choose between brilliant white or a no-nonsense grey—either way, expect crisp bedding meant for airy nights.—
Yelena Moroz Alpert,
Architectural Digest,
7 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Purists should go into it expecting not a faithful adaptation, but a romp best enjoyed as romantasy fanfic.—
Natasha O'Neill,
Vanity Fair,
13 Feb. 2026
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Physically and socially active, the Madisons still enjoy going on dates, sharing meals with friends, attending concerts and monthly visits to senior center across Henry County.—
Yolanda Harris,
AJC.com,
13 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Meanwhile, despite Forrest Gump’s insight about the unknowns inside every box of chocolates, some 43% of Americans do consult the guide that comes with most boxes before selecting a treat.—
Andrea Riquier,
USA Today,
13 Feb. 2026
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That structure can support the kind of consistent protein intake experts recommend for maintaining muscle and energy during perimenopause and menopause, especially when meals are selected in the roughly 25- to 35-gram protein range.—
Rita Templeton,
Flow Space,
13 Feb. 2026
Verb
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The big question might end up being how long Lutnick, who doesn’t exactly need the job of commerce secretary, wants to remain a punching bag — especially with Democrats favored to win control of the House later this year.—
Shelby Talcott,
semafor.com,
10 Feb. 2026
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May 21 – June 20 The morning hum favors brave conversations.—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
10 Feb. 2026
Verb
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When Warren went to pick her up at her parents' house, her brothers, Kevin, Reggie and Wayne, surrounded him.—
Everett Eaton,
jsonline.com,
10 Feb. 2026
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These cities were picked for their real estate, ideal locations and unique activities.—
Paige Moore,
AZCentral.com,
10 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Democrats want to see the administration lean more heavily on the use of judicial warrants, which require signoff by a judge, in certain situations.—
Morgan Chalfant,
semafor.com,
6 Feb. 2026
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Wall Street wants to see evidence that these enormous expenditures will result in actual profits.—
John Towfighi,
CNN Money,
6 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Prefer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prefer. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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