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.

Liquidation can force investors to realize capital gains in that tax year if the ETF had gained in value, even if they would have preferred to keep holding.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

“While we would have preferred to reach an agreement privately, we are making our interest public for the benefit of all Beazer shareholders.”

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

She had found the conversation she had with her son uncomfortable and told me she would have preferred not to have had it.

From Slate • May 4, 2026

Other carriers, notably US ones, have preferred not to hedge at all in recent years, because it can prove expensive when prices fall.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

Ian Rider was buried in Brompton Cemetery on the Fulham Road, just in the shadow of the Chelsea soccer field, and Alex knew where he would have preferred to be on that warm Wednesday afternoon.

From "Stormbreaker" by Anthony Horowitz