Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A self-described B-student, he spent his childhood adventuring in the wilderness near his hometown of Seattle, and as a kid had preferred skiing to YouTube.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The Court of Auditors report, drawn up before the heist, found that for years managers had preferred to invest in new artworks and exhibitions rather than basic upkeep and protection.

From BBC • Nov. 6, 2025

About his long career in politics, Mr. Lopes would often tell interviewers that he had preferred writing.

From New York Times • Dec. 1, 2023

"Juvenile crime is spreading like an oil stain," Meloni said during a press conference, saying that the state had preferred to shy away from tackling the problem in the past.

From Reuters • Sep. 7, 2023

But Aunt Eva had preferred living with her brother, Will, and his wife and helping them raise Hannah’s father when Belle was away at work.

From "The Devil's Arithmetic" by Jane Yolen